Final World Cup Power Rankings Before the Tournament Begins
The 2026 World Cup is now just 48 hours away, with the tournament set to kick off on June 11 when Mexico hosts South Africa in Mexico City. As the countdown continues, a panel of global reporters has assessed the contenders and pretenders ahead of the highly anticipated event. With only two days remaining until the start of the tournament, 20 reporters were asked to rank their top 15 favorites, ranging from the team most likely to win the trophy to the potential outsider that could cause a major upset. The collective rankings, compiled from the individual ballots, provide a comprehensive overview of the teams' prospects.
A panel of esteemed experts has been assembled to provide insight into the upcoming tournament, comprising Bill Connelly, James Olley, Julien Laurens, Sam Marsden, Rob Dawson, Mariano Mancuso, Armando Neria, Alain van Hilten, Mark Ogden, Lizzy Becherano, Beth Lindop, Ed Dove, Tom Hamilton, Leonardo Bertozzi, Alex Kirkland, Gabe Tan, Joey Lynch, Jeff Carlisle, Gab Marcotti, and Cesar Hernandez. This collective expertise serves as a shorthand guide to identifying the top contenders in the forthcoming competition, taking into account recent form
Spain remains the favored team in the expanded 48-team field, with our reporters and editors maintaining their confidence in La Roja. Notably, Spain garnered three more first-place votes than they had at the 30-day mark, a significant increase considering the uncertainties surrounding the squad. One major concern for the team is the fitness of teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who sat out the final month of the 2025-26 club season due to a hamstring injury. His road to recovery and match readiness is being closely monitored and carefully managed.
Spain's national team manager, Luis de la Fuente, has decided to leave Yamal, along with winger Nico Williams and reserve forward Víctor Muñoz, at the team's base camp in Chattanooga, Tennessee. This decision will allow them to continue their rehabilitation while the rest of the squad travels to Puebla, Mexico, for a final World Cup warm-up match against Peru. According to de la Fuente, Yamal is expected to be ready for Spain's tournament opener, although his availability will likely remain uncertain until the day of the match.
Spain is facing a crucial test as they look to prove that recent turbulence has not disrupted their preparations. Key decisions are looming, including who will start in goal, with Unai Simón currently holding the position despite some inconsistent performances. The team's attacking lineup is also uncertain, with Mikel Oyarzabal and Ferran Torres vying for the lead role. Furthermore, the competency of Spain's central defenders is a concern, as none of Pau Torres, Aymeric Laporte, or Eric García have stood out as particularly impressive. Another question mark hangs over the fitness of key midfielder Rodri, who has struggled with
Concerns have been raised about Spain's performance after last week's 1-1 draw with Egypt, in which they generated a mere four scoring chances despite maintaining possession of the ball for two-thirds of the game, while Egypt scored with one of their two shots on target. However, the team is expected to gain momentum as they begin their group play with what appears to be their easiest match on paper, potentially allowing them to ease into the tournament.
Spain's current FIFA ranking, as of June 7, stands at 3. The team's upcoming Group I games include a match against Senegal on June 16
France's national team is poised to compete in the upcoming tournament under the guidance of manager Didier Deschamps, who will be stepping down from his position after the event. As Deschamps prepares to bid farewell to his managerial role, the talented French squad is determined to secure a third World Cup victory, which would mark Deschamps' second triumph as a coach. Ousmane Dembélé, the team's star forward and currently ranked as the number one player at the World Cup, has expressed his desire to give Deschamps a triumphant conclusion to his impressive 14-year tenure. Given the team
A recent injury concern surrounding center back William Saliba has been alleviated, with team doctors confirming his match fitness despite a long-standing back issue that was only recently disclosed. The impressive form of key players, including Michael Olise, Désiré Doué, and Dembélé, is expected to intimidate their opponents in Group I. However, a strong start against Senegal is crucial to demonstrate that the team's inconsistent warm-up form, which included a 2-1 loss to Ivory Coast, is not a cause for concern.
The team's current unofficial FIFA ranking, as of June 7, stands at number
As the world waits with bated breath, the question on everyone's mind is whether Argentina can replicate their previous success. Becoming the first team to repeat as World Cup champions since Brazil achieved this feat in 1958 and 1962 will undoubtedly be a daunting task. Notably, Brazil had the legendary Pelé in their lineup when they accomplished this feat during the black-and-white TV era, and Lionel Messi's impact on the game draws comparisons to that of the Brazilian icon.
However, the current squad faces significant challenges, having grown older and potentially weaker, even as Messi continues to defy Father Time with his impressive performances
Argentina's preparations for the World Cup have been less than ideal, but manager Lionel Scaloni will rely on his tactical acumen and the experience of his established squad to navigate the knockout stages. The team may feel the absence of winger Ángel Di María, who retired from international duty after Argentina's Copa America triumph in 2023. However, a relatively favorable group draw provides them with an opportunity to find their footing.
According to the latest rankings, Argentina holds an unofficial FIFA ranking of 4 as of June 7. The team's Group L schedule includes a match against Croatia on June 17 in Dallas,
England's chances of success this summer are being met with skepticism, as a recent poll revealed that the team, also known as the Three Lions, did not receive a single first-place vote. This uncertainty is further compounded by Thomas Tuchel's decisions regarding the final roster. Notable omissions from the squad include Trent Alexander-Arnold, Cole Palmer, Phil Foden, Harry Maguire, and Adam Wharton, all of whom were expected to be included. In a surprise move, Tuchel has opted to include Ivan Toney, John Stones, and Jordan Henderson in the squad, decisions that may raise a
England's national team is poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming World Cup, with striker Harry Kane being the central figure. Fans of the English team are eagerly anticipating Kane to replicate his exceptional form with Bayern Munich, where he scored an impressive 64 goals in 56 games across all competitions in the 2025-26 season. The team's strategy is expected to revolve around Kane, with a talented group of players supporting him from various positions.
From the wide positions, Bukayo Saka, Anthony Gordon, and Noni Madueke are anticipated to provide pace and accurate delivery, creating scoring opportunities for
England's approach to the tournament is unmistakable, with the team set to follow the strategy outlined by their manager, a tactic that was a key factor in his appointment in 2025, following the departure of Gareth Southgate. The manager's exceptional ability to make in-game adjustments is also a significant advantage, and this skill could prove to be a decisive factor in the intense competition that is expected to unfold during the summer.
As of June 7, England's unofficial FIFA ranking stands at 6. The team's schedule for Group C includes matches against Morocco on June 13 in New York/New Jersey, Haiti on June
The appointment of Carlo Ancelotti as manager is a strategic move, given his proven track record of handling high-profile players at his previous roles with Real Madrid, Chelsea, Milan, PSG, and Bayern. This team is emerging as a strong contender, driven by a unique blend of talent and team dynamics.
Notwithstanding the injury to young winger Estêvão and the absence of a established No. 9 striker, Ancelotti is considering an innovative 4-2-4 formation that could bring an exciting brand of attacking football, albeit with potential defensive vulnerabilities. The success of this approach will largely depend on the
Brazil's attacking prowess is expected to be a key factor in their success, with players such as Raphinha, Igor Thiago, who has scored 22 Premier League goals for Brentford this season, and Matheus Cunha poised to thrive in the attacking third. The center back pair of Marquinhos and Gabriel Magalhães will also be crucial, as they are known for their calmness under pressure, which will be essential in withstanding the pressure that this four-forward formation may invite. However, a lack of credible fullbacks could be a vulnerability, allowing opponents to pin Brazil back and
Portugal's most prominent player, a 41-year-old forward widely regarded as one of the game's all-time greats, may also prove to be the team's most significant weakness if he is unable to adapt his playing style to complement a roster overflowing with talent. The upcoming World Cup represents the final major trophy missing from his collection, and his motivation is likely to be heightened following his long-time rival's triumph in 2022.
In recent months, it has become apparent that Portugal's strategy should center around midfielder Bruno Fernandes, rather than relying on their veteran forward. Successfully implementing this approach will pose the greatest challenge
Portugal's national team boasts a formidable lineup, featuring a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging young talents. Alongside key players such as Fernandes and Ronaldo, the squad includes world-class defenders like Rúben Dias, skilled midfielders Bernardo Silva and Rúben Neves, and promising young stars, including fullback Nuno Mendes and midfielders Vitinha and João Gomes. Additionally, the team benefits from the contributions of supporting cast members Pedro Neto and Rafael Leão, who bring a mix of unpredictability and industry to the table.
As the team prepares to face the challenges of the group stage
Germany's national football team, Die Mannschaft, is facing uncertainty as they prepare for their upcoming matches. The team's performance has been inconsistent, and their early exit from the 2022 World Cup in the group stage has raised questions about their ability to deliver under pressure. A significant factor in their disappointing World Cup campaign was a poor 10-minute spell against Japan in their opening match.
To avoid a similar outcome in the future, it is essential for Die Mannschaft to make a strong start. However, this will depend on the team's manager, Julian Nagelsmann, finding solutions to the key issues
Germany's defense is facing scrutiny, particularly with regards to whether it is robust enough to support Nico Schlotterbeck. Furthermore, there are concerns surrounding the role of goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, who recently turned 40 and has spent half the season recovering from an injury, before making a surprise return to the national team just three weeks ago.
According to the latest unofficial FIFA rankings as of June 7, Germany is positioned eighth. The team's Group F schedule includes matches against Japan on June 14 in Dallas, Sweden on June 20 in Houston, and Tunisia on June 25 in Kansas City.
Meanwhile, the Netherlands
Despite being consistently written off by pundits and voters, this team has consistently demonstrated an ability to rise to the challenge in high-pressure situations. A notable example of this resilience was their 2022 match against Argentina, where they forced the eventual champions to resort to penalties to secure a win. Similarly, in the Euro 2024 semifinal, England only managed to defeat them with an injury-time goal.
However, following a grueling summer, the team appears to be showing signs of fatigue and may be in need of a rejuvenation. The contract of manager Ronald Koeman is set to expire after the World Cup, and there
The Netherlands national team is currently facing a challenge in terms of dominant scorers among their forwards, with Memphis Depay, Cody Gakpo, and Brian Brobbey struggling to find consistency in front of goal. The team's midfield and defensive capabilities will be crucial in providing the necessary quality to make a significant impact in the tournament. Midfielder Frenkie de Jong and right back Denzel Dumfries will be expected to make a difference, despite experiencing ups and downs in their respective domestic seasons.
The Netherlands has also been dealt a blow with the injury to Arsenal defender Jurriën Timber, who has been scratched
Brazil is set to face a series of challenges, with upcoming matches against Scotland on June 19 in Boston and Haiti on June 24 in Atlanta, following their initial match on June 13 in New York/New Jersey.
Meanwhile, Morocco's prospects appear to be bolstered by the potential return of world-class fullback Achraf Hakimi, who has been sidelined for several crucial games with his club team, Paris Saint-Germain. If Hakimi regains full fitness, Morocco may be able to build upon their impressive 2022 semifinal run and 2025 Africa Cup of Nations performance.
However, recent
A robust 4-1-4-1 formation has been key to one team's defensive success, with their ability to concede few goals thanks to a solid backline that challenges opponents to play through their defensive lines. However, in order to pose a significant threat, the team will need to create scoring opportunities, and this will depend on the early connections between Hakimi and the playmakers, including Brahim Díaz, Bilal El Khannouss, and Ismael Saibari.
The team's current ranking is 31, according to the latest available data as of June 7. Their upcoming
Norway's national team is poised to make a notable impact in the upcoming tournament, thanks to a strong supporting class with extensive experience in Europe's top domestic leagues. The team's impressive talent pool could potentially propel them beyond the group stage, provided they can strike the right defensive balance.
After navigating a challenging qualifying campaign, Norway secured their spot in the 2026 tournament through a nail-biting playoff in March. Under the guidance of coach Stale Solbakken, the team made a bold statement by defeating Italy 4-1, despite conceding the first goal, to book their place in the competition. However
The prospect of Norway's success hinges on the performance of its supporting cast, including Sander Berge, who anchors the midfield, and Oscar Bobb and Antonio Nusa, who operate out wide. Additionally, Alexander Sørloth is expected to provide another formidable forward option to support Erling Haaland, particularly if the team is trailing in a match.
As of June 7, Norway's unofficial FIFA ranking stands at 9. The team's schedule in Group G includes matches against Egypt on June 15 in Seattle, Iran on June 21 in Los Angeles, and New Zealand on June 26 in Vancouver.
Belgium's national team is facing uncertainty ahead of the upcoming tournament, with key player Eden Hazard struggling to regain his former glory due to a plethora of injuries that have limited him to just seven games with Napoli all season. As a result, it remains to be seen whether he will secure a starting position, and the team's defense appears to be a work in progress, relying on the expertise of goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
The team's qualifying campaign has also raised concerns, with only five wins from eight games against Wales, Kazakhstan, North Macedonia, and Liechtenstein, a record that does not inspire confidence.
Colombia is set to make a significant impact in Group K, despite being somewhat underestimated, as they return to the international stage after missing the 2022 World Cup. The team's prospects are bolstered by the impressive club form of Bayern winger Luis Díaz, who is expected to spearhead their attack. Meanwhile, 34-year-old attacking midfielder James Rodríguez is eager to demonstrate that he still has a lot to offer, driven by a desire to prove his enduring quality.
Under the guidance of Coach Nestor Lorenzo, Colombia boasts a strong and cohesive squad, with 14 of the 26 players having
Uncertainties surround the defensive capabilities of Colombia, with concerns that the first-choice central defensive pairing of Jhon Lucumí and Davinson Sánchez may struggle if left exposed by their attack-minded fullbacks. Nevertheless, coach Lorenzo remains confident that his team can overcome both the heat and their opponents, Uzbekistan, in their opening match, paving the way for a potentially successful tournament.
The team's current unofficial FIFA ranking stands at 15 as of June 7. Their Group I schedule includes matches against France on June 16 in New York/New Jersey, Norway on June 22 in New York/New Jersey, and Iraq
Senegal boasts an impressive lineup with considerable depth and talent across nearly every position. Under the leadership of defender Kalidou Koulibaly, the team's aggressive midfield play, combined with the unpredictable attacking prowess of Sadio Mané and Ismaïla Sarr, makes them a formidable opponent capable of outworking most teams in the 48-team field. However, in order to make a significant impact, Senegal must demonstrate its ability to score goals, and it remains to be seen whether Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson can fulfill his potential as the team's talismanic striker, following an impressive 11-goal loan season with
Ghana is set to face a seasoned Croatian team in the upcoming tournament, with the Balkan nation's squad boasting a wealth of experience. The team, led by manager Zlatko Dalic, who has been at the helm since 2017, has consistently demonstrated its ability to make deep runs in major tournaments. A key factor in this success has been the presence of veteran players, including Luka Modric, 40, Ivan Perisic, 37, Andrej Kramaric, 34, and Mateo Kovacic, 31, who have fought side-by-side for over a decade and
Tottenham's young center back Luka Vuskovic, who had an impressive loan stint with Hamburg in the Bundesliga, and midfielder Martin Baturina, fresh from a breakthrough campaign with Como, are expected to bring a fresh injection of youth and unpredictability to their team.
Japan is ranked 18th in the unofficial FIFA rankings as of June 7. The team's group F games are scheduled to take place on June 14 against the Netherlands in Dallas, June 20 against Tunisia in Monterrey, Mexico, and June 25 against Sweden in Dallas.
In related news, Japan, despite being the last team
Manager Hajime Moriyasu's 3-4-2-1 formation remains an impressive tactic, specifically designed to bring out the best in winger Takefusa Kubo in the attacking third, as well as utilize the skills of wingback Keito Nakamura, who recently stole the show in Japan's warm-up victory over England. Japan is expected to be one of the hardest-working teams this summer, but the loss of key players will demand even greater effort from the squad in order to maintain their competitive edge.
A panel of esteemed experts has been assembled to provide insight into the upcoming tournament, comprising Bill Connelly, James Olley, Julien Laurens, Sam Marsden, Rob Dawson, Mariano Mancuso, Armando Neria, Alain van Hilten, Mark Ogden, Lizzy Becherano, Beth Lindop, Ed Dove, Tom Hamilton, Leonardo Bertozzi, Alex Kirkland, Gabe Tan, Joey Lynch, Jeff Carlisle, Gab Marcotti, and Cesar Hernandez. This collective expertise serves as a shorthand guide to identifying the top contenders in the forthcoming competition, taking into account recent form
Spain remains the favored team in the expanded 48-team field, with our reporters and editors maintaining their confidence in La Roja. Notably, Spain garnered three more first-place votes than they had at the 30-day mark, a significant increase considering the uncertainties surrounding the squad. One major concern for the team is the fitness of teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who sat out the final month of the 2025-26 club season due to a hamstring injury. His road to recovery and match readiness is being closely monitored and carefully managed.
Spain's national team manager, Luis de la Fuente, has decided to leave Yamal, along with winger Nico Williams and reserve forward Víctor Muñoz, at the team's base camp in Chattanooga, Tennessee. This decision will allow them to continue their rehabilitation while the rest of the squad travels to Puebla, Mexico, for a final World Cup warm-up match against Peru. According to de la Fuente, Yamal is expected to be ready for Spain's tournament opener, although his availability will likely remain uncertain until the day of the match.
Spain is facing a crucial test as they look to prove that recent turbulence has not disrupted their preparations. Key decisions are looming, including who will start in goal, with Unai Simón currently holding the position despite some inconsistent performances. The team's attacking lineup is also uncertain, with Mikel Oyarzabal and Ferran Torres vying for the lead role. Furthermore, the competency of Spain's central defenders is a concern, as none of Pau Torres, Aymeric Laporte, or Eric García have stood out as particularly impressive. Another question mark hangs over the fitness of key midfielder Rodri, who has struggled with
Concerns have been raised about Spain's performance after last week's 1-1 draw with Egypt, in which they generated a mere four scoring chances despite maintaining possession of the ball for two-thirds of the game, while Egypt scored with one of their two shots on target. However, the team is expected to gain momentum as they begin their group play with what appears to be their easiest match on paper, potentially allowing them to ease into the tournament.
Spain's current FIFA ranking, as of June 7, stands at 3. The team's upcoming Group I games include a match against Senegal on June 16
France's national team is poised to compete in the upcoming tournament under the guidance of manager Didier Deschamps, who will be stepping down from his position after the event. As Deschamps prepares to bid farewell to his managerial role, the talented French squad is determined to secure a third World Cup victory, which would mark Deschamps' second triumph as a coach. Ousmane Dembélé, the team's star forward and currently ranked as the number one player at the World Cup, has expressed his desire to give Deschamps a triumphant conclusion to his impressive 14-year tenure. Given the team
A recent injury concern surrounding center back William Saliba has been alleviated, with team doctors confirming his match fitness despite a long-standing back issue that was only recently disclosed. The impressive form of key players, including Michael Olise, Désiré Doué, and Dembélé, is expected to intimidate their opponents in Group I. However, a strong start against Senegal is crucial to demonstrate that the team's inconsistent warm-up form, which included a 2-1 loss to Ivory Coast, is not a cause for concern.
The team's current unofficial FIFA ranking, as of June 7, stands at number
As the world waits with bated breath, the question on everyone's mind is whether Argentina can replicate their previous success. Becoming the first team to repeat as World Cup champions since Brazil achieved this feat in 1958 and 1962 will undoubtedly be a daunting task. Notably, Brazil had the legendary Pelé in their lineup when they accomplished this feat during the black-and-white TV era, and Lionel Messi's impact on the game draws comparisons to that of the Brazilian icon.
However, the current squad faces significant challenges, having grown older and potentially weaker, even as Messi continues to defy Father Time with his impressive performances
Argentina's preparations for the World Cup have been less than ideal, but manager Lionel Scaloni will rely on his tactical acumen and the experience of his established squad to navigate the knockout stages. The team may feel the absence of winger Ángel Di María, who retired from international duty after Argentina's Copa America triumph in 2023. However, a relatively favorable group draw provides them with an opportunity to find their footing.
According to the latest rankings, Argentina holds an unofficial FIFA ranking of 4 as of June 7. The team's Group L schedule includes a match against Croatia on June 17 in Dallas,
England's chances of success this summer are being met with skepticism, as a recent poll revealed that the team, also known as the Three Lions, did not receive a single first-place vote. This uncertainty is further compounded by Thomas Tuchel's decisions regarding the final roster. Notable omissions from the squad include Trent Alexander-Arnold, Cole Palmer, Phil Foden, Harry Maguire, and Adam Wharton, all of whom were expected to be included. In a surprise move, Tuchel has opted to include Ivan Toney, John Stones, and Jordan Henderson in the squad, decisions that may raise a
England's national team is poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming World Cup, with striker Harry Kane being the central figure. Fans of the English team are eagerly anticipating Kane to replicate his exceptional form with Bayern Munich, where he scored an impressive 64 goals in 56 games across all competitions in the 2025-26 season. The team's strategy is expected to revolve around Kane, with a talented group of players supporting him from various positions.
From the wide positions, Bukayo Saka, Anthony Gordon, and Noni Madueke are anticipated to provide pace and accurate delivery, creating scoring opportunities for
England's approach to the tournament is unmistakable, with the team set to follow the strategy outlined by their manager, a tactic that was a key factor in his appointment in 2025, following the departure of Gareth Southgate. The manager's exceptional ability to make in-game adjustments is also a significant advantage, and this skill could prove to be a decisive factor in the intense competition that is expected to unfold during the summer.
As of June 7, England's unofficial FIFA ranking stands at 6. The team's schedule for Group C includes matches against Morocco on June 13 in New York/New Jersey, Haiti on June
The appointment of Carlo Ancelotti as manager is a strategic move, given his proven track record of handling high-profile players at his previous roles with Real Madrid, Chelsea, Milan, PSG, and Bayern. This team is emerging as a strong contender, driven by a unique blend of talent and team dynamics.
Notwithstanding the injury to young winger Estêvão and the absence of a established No. 9 striker, Ancelotti is considering an innovative 4-2-4 formation that could bring an exciting brand of attacking football, albeit with potential defensive vulnerabilities. The success of this approach will largely depend on the
Brazil's attacking prowess is expected to be a key factor in their success, with players such as Raphinha, Igor Thiago, who has scored 22 Premier League goals for Brentford this season, and Matheus Cunha poised to thrive in the attacking third. The center back pair of Marquinhos and Gabriel Magalhães will also be crucial, as they are known for their calmness under pressure, which will be essential in withstanding the pressure that this four-forward formation may invite. However, a lack of credible fullbacks could be a vulnerability, allowing opponents to pin Brazil back and
Portugal's most prominent player, a 41-year-old forward widely regarded as one of the game's all-time greats, may also prove to be the team's most significant weakness if he is unable to adapt his playing style to complement a roster overflowing with talent. The upcoming World Cup represents the final major trophy missing from his collection, and his motivation is likely to be heightened following his long-time rival's triumph in 2022.
In recent months, it has become apparent that Portugal's strategy should center around midfielder Bruno Fernandes, rather than relying on their veteran forward. Successfully implementing this approach will pose the greatest challenge
Portugal's national team boasts a formidable lineup, featuring a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging young talents. Alongside key players such as Fernandes and Ronaldo, the squad includes world-class defenders like Rúben Dias, skilled midfielders Bernardo Silva and Rúben Neves, and promising young stars, including fullback Nuno Mendes and midfielders Vitinha and João Gomes. Additionally, the team benefits from the contributions of supporting cast members Pedro Neto and Rafael Leão, who bring a mix of unpredictability and industry to the table.
As the team prepares to face the challenges of the group stage
Germany's national football team, Die Mannschaft, is facing uncertainty as they prepare for their upcoming matches. The team's performance has been inconsistent, and their early exit from the 2022 World Cup in the group stage has raised questions about their ability to deliver under pressure. A significant factor in their disappointing World Cup campaign was a poor 10-minute spell against Japan in their opening match.
To avoid a similar outcome in the future, it is essential for Die Mannschaft to make a strong start. However, this will depend on the team's manager, Julian Nagelsmann, finding solutions to the key issues
Germany's defense is facing scrutiny, particularly with regards to whether it is robust enough to support Nico Schlotterbeck. Furthermore, there are concerns surrounding the role of goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, who recently turned 40 and has spent half the season recovering from an injury, before making a surprise return to the national team just three weeks ago.
According to the latest unofficial FIFA rankings as of June 7, Germany is positioned eighth. The team's Group F schedule includes matches against Japan on June 14 in Dallas, Sweden on June 20 in Houston, and Tunisia on June 25 in Kansas City.
Meanwhile, the Netherlands
Despite being consistently written off by pundits and voters, this team has consistently demonstrated an ability to rise to the challenge in high-pressure situations. A notable example of this resilience was their 2022 match against Argentina, where they forced the eventual champions to resort to penalties to secure a win. Similarly, in the Euro 2024 semifinal, England only managed to defeat them with an injury-time goal.
However, following a grueling summer, the team appears to be showing signs of fatigue and may be in need of a rejuvenation. The contract of manager Ronald Koeman is set to expire after the World Cup, and there
The Netherlands national team is currently facing a challenge in terms of dominant scorers among their forwards, with Memphis Depay, Cody Gakpo, and Brian Brobbey struggling to find consistency in front of goal. The team's midfield and defensive capabilities will be crucial in providing the necessary quality to make a significant impact in the tournament. Midfielder Frenkie de Jong and right back Denzel Dumfries will be expected to make a difference, despite experiencing ups and downs in their respective domestic seasons.
The Netherlands has also been dealt a blow with the injury to Arsenal defender Jurriën Timber, who has been scratched
Brazil is set to face a series of challenges, with upcoming matches against Scotland on June 19 in Boston and Haiti on June 24 in Atlanta, following their initial match on June 13 in New York/New Jersey.
Meanwhile, Morocco's prospects appear to be bolstered by the potential return of world-class fullback Achraf Hakimi, who has been sidelined for several crucial games with his club team, Paris Saint-Germain. If Hakimi regains full fitness, Morocco may be able to build upon their impressive 2022 semifinal run and 2025 Africa Cup of Nations performance.
However, recent
A robust 4-1-4-1 formation has been key to one team's defensive success, with their ability to concede few goals thanks to a solid backline that challenges opponents to play through their defensive lines. However, in order to pose a significant threat, the team will need to create scoring opportunities, and this will depend on the early connections between Hakimi and the playmakers, including Brahim Díaz, Bilal El Khannouss, and Ismael Saibari.
The team's current ranking is 31, according to the latest available data as of June 7. Their upcoming
Norway's national team is poised to make a notable impact in the upcoming tournament, thanks to a strong supporting class with extensive experience in Europe's top domestic leagues. The team's impressive talent pool could potentially propel them beyond the group stage, provided they can strike the right defensive balance.
After navigating a challenging qualifying campaign, Norway secured their spot in the 2026 tournament through a nail-biting playoff in March. Under the guidance of coach Stale Solbakken, the team made a bold statement by defeating Italy 4-1, despite conceding the first goal, to book their place in the competition. However
The prospect of Norway's success hinges on the performance of its supporting cast, including Sander Berge, who anchors the midfield, and Oscar Bobb and Antonio Nusa, who operate out wide. Additionally, Alexander Sørloth is expected to provide another formidable forward option to support Erling Haaland, particularly if the team is trailing in a match.
As of June 7, Norway's unofficial FIFA ranking stands at 9. The team's schedule in Group G includes matches against Egypt on June 15 in Seattle, Iran on June 21 in Los Angeles, and New Zealand on June 26 in Vancouver.
Belgium's national team is facing uncertainty ahead of the upcoming tournament, with key player Eden Hazard struggling to regain his former glory due to a plethora of injuries that have limited him to just seven games with Napoli all season. As a result, it remains to be seen whether he will secure a starting position, and the team's defense appears to be a work in progress, relying on the expertise of goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
The team's qualifying campaign has also raised concerns, with only five wins from eight games against Wales, Kazakhstan, North Macedonia, and Liechtenstein, a record that does not inspire confidence.
Colombia is set to make a significant impact in Group K, despite being somewhat underestimated, as they return to the international stage after missing the 2022 World Cup. The team's prospects are bolstered by the impressive club form of Bayern winger Luis Díaz, who is expected to spearhead their attack. Meanwhile, 34-year-old attacking midfielder James Rodríguez is eager to demonstrate that he still has a lot to offer, driven by a desire to prove his enduring quality.
Under the guidance of Coach Nestor Lorenzo, Colombia boasts a strong and cohesive squad, with 14 of the 26 players having
Uncertainties surround the defensive capabilities of Colombia, with concerns that the first-choice central defensive pairing of Jhon Lucumí and Davinson Sánchez may struggle if left exposed by their attack-minded fullbacks. Nevertheless, coach Lorenzo remains confident that his team can overcome both the heat and their opponents, Uzbekistan, in their opening match, paving the way for a potentially successful tournament.
The team's current unofficial FIFA ranking stands at 15 as of June 7. Their Group I schedule includes matches against France on June 16 in New York/New Jersey, Norway on June 22 in New York/New Jersey, and Iraq
Senegal boasts an impressive lineup with considerable depth and talent across nearly every position. Under the leadership of defender Kalidou Koulibaly, the team's aggressive midfield play, combined with the unpredictable attacking prowess of Sadio Mané and Ismaïla Sarr, makes them a formidable opponent capable of outworking most teams in the 48-team field. However, in order to make a significant impact, Senegal must demonstrate its ability to score goals, and it remains to be seen whether Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson can fulfill his potential as the team's talismanic striker, following an impressive 11-goal loan season with
Ghana is set to face a seasoned Croatian team in the upcoming tournament, with the Balkan nation's squad boasting a wealth of experience. The team, led by manager Zlatko Dalic, who has been at the helm since 2017, has consistently demonstrated its ability to make deep runs in major tournaments. A key factor in this success has been the presence of veteran players, including Luka Modric, 40, Ivan Perisic, 37, Andrej Kramaric, 34, and Mateo Kovacic, 31, who have fought side-by-side for over a decade and
Tottenham's young center back Luka Vuskovic, who had an impressive loan stint with Hamburg in the Bundesliga, and midfielder Martin Baturina, fresh from a breakthrough campaign with Como, are expected to bring a fresh injection of youth and unpredictability to their team.
Japan is ranked 18th in the unofficial FIFA rankings as of June 7. The team's group F games are scheduled to take place on June 14 against the Netherlands in Dallas, June 20 against Tunisia in Monterrey, Mexico, and June 25 against Sweden in Dallas.
In related news, Japan, despite being the last team
Manager Hajime Moriyasu's 3-4-2-1 formation remains an impressive tactic, specifically designed to bring out the best in winger Takefusa Kubo in the attacking third, as well as utilize the skills of wingback Keito Nakamura, who recently stole the show in Japan's warm-up victory over England. Japan is expected to be one of the hardest-working teams this summer, but the loss of key players will demand even greater effort from the squad in order to maintain their competitive edge.
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