Predictions for Group Winners in the 2026 World Cup

Overview of the Expanded Group Stage

The 2026 World Cup will feature a much larger group stage than before, with 12 groups containing 48 teams playing 72 matches. Hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, this tournament brings together teams from all six continental federations, creating exciting matchups where underdogs face giants and newcomers experience their first World Cup journey.

Only one-third of teams will be eliminated after this stage, but finishing at the top of a four-team group is key to securing a more favorable matchup in the round of 32. Teams that win their groups usually face less challenging opponents in the first knockout round.

Group A: Mexico

Teams: Mexico, South Korea, South Africa, Czechia

Mexico enjoys a home advantage as one of the hosts and was placed in Pot 1 despite being ranked 15th by FIFA. It avoids facing the strongest teams early on, which improves its chances of topping the group. While South Korea and Czechia are tough competitors and South Africa might pull off surprises, Mexico is expected to lead Group A with crowd support on its side.

Group B: Switzerland

Teams: Canada, Switzerland, Qatar, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Canada shares the benefit of Pot 1 placement but might find it hard to claim first place despite a good chance to advance. Switzerland, known for its experience in big tournaments and solid squad, looks like the favorite to win what is considered the weakest group. Qatar and Bosnia & Herzegovina seem less likely to challenge the Europeans.

Group C: Brazil

Teams: Brazil, Morocco, Scotland, Haiti

Brazil is widely predicted to finish atop Group C, aiming for a sixth World Cup title. Morocco, semifinalists in 2022 and now ranked eighth by FIFA, could challenge Brazil if any slip-ups occur. Scotland and Haiti are seen as unlikely to stop these two powerhouses.

Group D: United States

Teams: United States, Australia, Paraguay, Türkiye

The U.S. team has high expectations playing at home under coach Mauricio Pochettino. Their main rival for first place appears to be Türkiye, whose young talented squad promises a competitive fight. Australia and Paraguay will not be easy opponents either.

Group E: Germany

Teams: Germany, Ecuador, Côte d'Ivoire, Curaçao

Though Germany hasn’t matched its past glories since 2014, it should still dominate Group E comfortably. Ecuador impressed during qualifiers and might cause some upsets. Côte d'Ivoire, once formidable with stars like Drogba and Touré, no longer poses a major threat. Debutants Curaçao are expected to struggle.

Group F: Netherlands

Teams: Netherlands, Japan, Tunisia, Sweden

Group F looks highly competitive. The Netherlands is favored to win due to strong depth and star players. Japan, fresh off a win over England, aims to replicate its 2022 surprises. Sweden brings attacking firepower, and Tunisia can potentially spring shocks.

Group G: Belgium

Teams: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand

Belgium’s golden generation has mostly moved on, leaving veterans like Kevin De Bruyne and Thibaut Courtois to carry the team. Defensive weaknesses remain a concern, yet Belgium is expected to top this relatively straightforward group. Egypt is next best, while Iran’s participation remains uncertain and New Zealand is unlikely to challenge.

Group H: Spain

Teams: Spain, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, Cape Verde

Spain faces serious competition only from Uruguay, led by coach Marcelo Bielsa, known for shaking up favorites. Saudi Arabia and debutants Cape Verde (who beat Argentina in 2022) are considered long shots. Spain’s clash with Uruguay will probably decide the group winner.

Group I: France

Teams: France, Senegal, Norway, Iraq

This is seen as the "Group of Death." France is the clear favorite and many expect them to contend for the World Cup title, but 14th-ranked Senegal and 31st-ranked Norway present tough challenges. Iraq is expected to suffer heavy losses, while the matches among the other three teams promise tension. France should still come out on top.

Group J: Argentina

Teams: Argentina, Austria, Algeria, Jordan

Argentina looks set to cruise through Group J, with Austria and Algeria battling for second place. The reigning champions hold the strongest squad and will likely dispatch both Austria and Algeria easily. Jordan, making its debut, could face a harsh introduction.

Group K: Portugal

Teams: Portugal, Colombia, Uzbekistan, DR Congo

Group K is tougher to call. Portugal and Colombia are serious contenders to take first place, with their head-to-head match probably deciding the group. Portugal is favored to overcome Colombia, while Uzbekistan and DR Congo may provide more resistance than expected but are unlikely to lead.

Group L: England

Teams: England, Croatia, Panama, Ghana

England and Croatia are close rivals separated by just seven places in the rankings. They were semifinal foes in 2018, and both will fight hard for the top spot. England, managed by Thomas Tuchel, is favored but must handle emerging teams Panama and unpredictable Ghana to secure first place.