World Cup 2026 Group Stage: Predictions for Round of 32 Qualifiers in US, Canada, and Mexico
World Cup 2026 Group Stage Preview and Predictions
The 2026 World Cup, hosted across North America from June 11 to July 19, will be the largest tournament ever held. Argentina enters as defending champions after their memorable win in Qatar 2022. European giants like France and Spain remain favorites, while England aims to end a 60-year wait for a major international trophy.
With the expanded format, new teams such as Curacao and Iraq make their debuts, increasing the chances for surprising underdog stories. Below is a group-by-group breakdown with predictions on which teams will advance to the knockout stage.
Group A
Mexico enjoys home advantage and a relatively favorable draw. South Africa returns after missing several tournaments, while South Korea looks set to claim the second spot, marking a farewell for Son Heung-min. Czechia earned its place through a playoff penalty shootout against Denmark but may struggle to progress.
Odds favor Mexico and South Korea to advance, with Mexico likely to top the group and enjoy a potentially deep run starting at the Azteca Stadium.
Group B
This group opens wide following Bosnia and Herzegovina's unexpected playoff victory over Italy. Canada, as co-hosts, hold a strong position despite their world ranking of 30. Switzerland is expected to lead the group, though Qatar will fight hard, fueled by recent Asian Cup successes.
Canada has a good shot at qualifying thanks to three home games, although Switzerland remains a favorite to finish first.
Group C
Brazil, led by Carlo Ancelotti, seeks to add to their record five World Cup titles. Alongside AFCON winners Morocco, they appear most likely to advance. Scotland could reach the knockout rounds for the first time, benefiting from Haiti's presence, who are newcomers to this stage.
Bookmakers see the top three teams progressing, with Haiti as clear outsiders.
Group D
The United States aims to impress under Mauricio Pochettino but faces strong competition from Turkey and Paraguay. All four teams have the potential to claim points, making this group quite unpredictable.
The US’s strong opening win puts them in a solid position, yet Australia’s surprise win over Turkey adds intrigue.
Group E
Germany seeks redemption after two early exits since their 2014 triumph. They start against newcomers Curacao and look poised to advance. However, Ivory Coast and Ecuador could challenge if Germany falters.
Germany is favored heavily, but Ivory Coast might offer value after their initial victory.
Group F
Arguably the most competitive group, featuring Japan, Netherlands, and Sweden. Japan's recent strong performances suggest they can top the group. Tunisia, with two previous group-stage exits, faces an uphill battle to avoid a third.
Odds favor Netherlands and Japan, but Sweden’s impressive start cannot be ignored.
Group G
Belgium and Egypt, led by Kevin De Bruyne and Mohamed Salah, are expected to qualify. Iran has talent but faces challenges due to visa and political issues in the US. New Zealand would cause a major upset if it advances.
Group H
Spain benefits from a schedule that places their toughest match, against Uruguay, last. They hope to regain momentum with key players returning. Saudi Arabia aims to break a long streak without knockout progression, needing results from Spain or Uruguay.
Spain and Uruguay stand out as group favorites, while Cape Verde is the clear underdog.
Group I
A showdown between stars Kylian Mbappe (France) and Erling Haaland (Norway) is set in Boston. France is likely to secure advancement early. Senegal could capitalize if France slips, recalling their shock 2002 victory. Iraq earned its spot through playoffs and showed promise in pre-tournament friendlies.
Group J
Argentina starts against Algeria, needing to avoid early stumbles reminiscent of Qatar 2022. Matches against Austria loom large. Austria impressed at Euro 2024 and could make an impact here.
Argentina is favored to win the group, with Austria considered a strong contender for second place.
Group K
Portugal fields Cristiano Ronaldo on what is likely his final World Cup run. Questions about his current form remain. Colombia, led by James Rodriguez, also aims to advance. Debutants Uzbekistan and DR Congo seek memorable moments in a tough group.
Portugal and Colombia are expected to progress comfortably before facing each other.
Group L
England, under new coach Thomas Tuchel, confronts familiar rivals Croatia first. Both are favored to win the group. Ghana and Panama face difficult tasks, especially Ghana after missing the latest AFCON.
England ranks among the tournament favorites overall, with Croatia also highly regarded in this group.
These predictions reflect current form, odds, and team histories. The expanded format and multiple host nations add fresh dynamics to the 2026 World Cup, promising exciting twists throughout the group stage.
