Ranking the World Cup 2026 groups: Which teams are favourites to progress? | World Cup 2026 News
Record Number of Teams to Compete in Summer World Cup
This summer’s World Cup will feature a record 48 teams participating in the tournament, organized into 12 groups for the initial stage.
The groups include 12 seeded teams, featuring the three host nations along with eight of the highest-ranked global teams. The four top nations—Spain, Argentina, France, and England—have been assigned to separate quadrants in a new, tennis-style seeded bracket.
FIFA announced that should these top four teams each finish first in their groups, they will not face one another until the semifinals.
The leading two teams from each group will advance automatically to the knockout stage, joined by the eight best third-placed teams.
Group Highlights
Group I: France, Senegal, Iraq, Norway
Group I has been labeled the “group of death” due to the high average FIFA rankings of its teams. France aims for a third consecutive final appearance, with Senegal presenting a strong challenge as one of Africa’s leading teams. Norway’s Erling Haaland adds to the competitive nature, while Iraq, having faced a tough qualification journey, will also compete vigorously.
Favorites: France and Senegal
Group F: Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, Tunisia
With an average ranking of 26, Group F poses a tough challenge, particularly for Japan and Sweden, both of whom bring attacking threats. Japan was the first nation to qualify for the tournament and is coming off a significant victory against England. Tunisia, having qualified without conceding a goal, will seek to reach the knockout stage for the first time.
Favorites: Netherlands and Japan
Group L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama
This group features former finalists Croatia, who look to continue their strong World Cup tradition. England will face Croatia in a highly anticipated opening match, marking Thomas Tuchel’s debut in tournament football as the manager. Ghana and Panama round out the group, with both aiming to disrupt the expected order.
Favorites: England and Croatia
Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, Scotland
This competitive group features Brazil, historically a powerhouse, alongside African champions Morocco, who aim to replicate their past success. Haiti and Scotland will compete for third place, with the potential for upsets against the higher-ranked teams.
Favorites: Brazil and Morocco
Group K: Portugal, DR Congo, Uzbekistan, Colombia
Portugal and Colombia are expected to lead this group, but DR Congo poses a potential challenge alongside first-time competitors Uzbekistan, led by Fabio Cannavaro. Colombia is riding high after reaching the Copa America final and will vie for the top spot against Portugal.
Favorites: Portugal and Colombia
Group H: Spain, Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay
Spain enters the tournament as favorites after a successful Euro 2024 campaign. Their match against Uruguay is anticipated to be a highlight. Saudi Arabia aims for a strong showing following their surprising performance in Qatar 2022.
Favorites: Spain and Uruguay
Group E: Germany, Curacao, Ivory Coast, Ecuador
Despite a lower average FIFA ranking, this group presents challenges for all teams. Germany seeks to rebound from past group stage exits, while Ecuador boasts a strong qualifying performance. Ivory Coast enters with momentum from recent African Cup of Nations success, and Curacao makes their tournament debut.
Favorites: Germany and Ecuador
Group J: Argentina, Algeria, Austria, Jordan
Defending champions Argentina are favored to lead this group. Austria and Algeria are closely ranked, with their match likely determining the second-place team. Jordan seeks to capitalize on their recent performance as Asian Cup runners-up.
Favorites: Argentina and Austria
Group A: Mexico, South Africa, South Korea, Czech Republic
This group features cohosts Mexico, who will leverage home advantage. South Korea, unbeaten in Asian qualifying, will contend for a knockout position alongside the Czech Republic. South Africa, with yet to qualify for the knockout stages, hopes for a breakthrough.
Favorites: Mexico and South Korea
Group G: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand
Belgium is favored in this group, despite the absence of their “golden generation.” Egypt, led by Mohamed Salah, aims to secure a historic World Cup victory, while Iran faces uncertain preparations amidst broader regional challenges. New Zealand, the lowest-ranked team in the tournament, seeks to compete against formidable opponents.
Favorites: Belgium and Egypt
Group D: United States, Paraguay, Turkiye, Australia
This group presents cohosts the United States with a favorable draw despite the high average FIFA ranking. Coach Mauricio Pochettino looks to Christian Pulisic to lead the team. Turkiye, having qualified through playoffs, will aim for a top position alongside the U.S. Paraguay and Australia also hope to advance.
Favorites: United States and Turkiye
Group B: Canada, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Qatar, Switzerland
While this group has the lowest average FIFA ranking, it promises competitive matches. Switzerland, with a strong record in major tournaments, is favored, while cohost Canada hopes to leverage home support. Bosnia and Herzegovina’s elimination of Italy in qualification adds intrigue, and Qatar, as Asian Cup champions, looks to present a challenge as well.
Favorites: Switzerland and Canada
