Top Contenders to Win Each Group at the 2026 World Cup

Group A: Mexico

Hosts Mexico benefit from home advantage and a spot in Pot 1, despite being ranked 15th by FIFA. Their group includes South Korea, South Africa, and Czechia. While Mexico's current form is uncertain, the home crowd support boosts their chances of topping the group. South Korea and Czechia are strong competitors, and South Africa could surprise, but El Tri is expected to lead.

Group B: Switzerland

Canada, also a host nation and placed in Pot 1, faces a favorable group including Switzerland, Qatar, and Bosnia & Herzegovina. Despite this, Canada might find it tough to claim first place. Instead, Switzerland stands out as the likely group leader with their tournament experience and solid squad, outmatching Qatar and Bosnia & Herzegovina.

Group C: Brazil

It's no surprise to see Brazil favored to top Group C, which also includes Morocco, Scotland, and Haiti. Morocco, semifinalists in 2022 and now ranked eighth globally, could challenge Brazil if they falter. Scotland and Haiti seem less likely to upset the stronger teams. Brazil aims for a record sixth World Cup title.

Group D: United States

The United States returns as a host with high expectations, managed by Mauricio Pochettino. The group features Australia, Paraguay, and Türkiye. Türkiye, having emerged through UEFA playoffs with a talented young team, looks like the main rival for first place. Australia and Paraguay should not be underestimated either.

Group E: Germany

Germany has struggled to recapture its former dominance since 2014 but should still advance comfortably from a group including Ecuador, Côte d'Ivoire, and Curaçao. Ecuador impressed during qualifiers and might cause surprises. Côte d'Ivoire no longer holds the power it once did, and debutants Curaçao are unlikely to make a big impact.

Group F: Netherlands

This group is expected to be fiercely competitive. Netherlands enters as the favorite, armed with depth and star quality. Japan, fresh off a win against England, looks capable of another upset similar to 2022. Sweden brings attacking strength, while Tunisia could also spring a surprise.

Group G: Belgium

Belgium was a top contender in the last decade, but its golden generation has mostly retired. Kevin De Bruyne and Thibaut Courtois remain key figures, though defensive weaknesses persist. Egypt appears as the main challenger. Iran's participation is uncertain, and New Zealand is unlikely to compete strongly.

Group H: Spain

Spain should lead Group H, which also has Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, and Cape Verde. Uruguay, coached by Marcelo Bielsa, could challenge Spain strongly. Cape Verde, making its debut, previously shocked Argentina in 2022. Saudi Arabia is expected to struggle. The match between Spain and Uruguay will likely decide the group winner.

Group I: France

Known as the 'Group of Death,' Group I features France, Senegal, Norway, and Iraq. France is among the favorites to win the whole tournament. Senegal (14th) and Norway (31st) offer significant challenges, while Iraq is expected to face heavy defeats. Matches among France, Senegal, and Norway should be intense, but France is favored to prevail.

Group J: Argentina

Argentina, defending champions, appear set to cruise through Group J, facing Austria, Algeria, and Jordan. Austria and Algeria will likely contest for second place. Jordan, making its World Cup debut, might struggle significantly.

Group K: Portugal

Portugal and Colombia both look like contenders for top spot in Group K, with their head-to-head clash probably deciding the group leader. Uzbekistan and DR Congo could provide more resistance than expected, but are seen as underdogs.

Group L: England

England and Croatia are closely matched rivals for first place in Group L, separated by only seven ranking spots and remembering their 2018 semifinal encounter. Panama and unpredictable Ghana will try to challenge but England, led by Thomas Tuchel, remains the favorite to top the group.