AUTHOR: Star Sports Content
WORLD CUP 2026: Team-by-Team Pinstickers’ Guide
Still deciding which nation to back at the FIFA World Cup 2026? Our ultimate World Cup 2026 team-by-team guide has everything you need ahead of the biggest tournament in international football.
From World Cup favourites and genuine title contenders to potential dark horses and underdogs, we analyse every qualified nation’s chances of success. Discover expert World Cup 2026 predictions, squad analysis, key players, strengths and weaknesses, and tournament expectations for every team.
Whether you’re looking for World Cup betting insight, team previews, or simply want to know who can win the 2026 World Cup, our complete FIFA World Cup 2026 guide provides in-depth analysis, star ratings and predictions for all 48 teams competing in the USA, Canada and Mexico.
⭐ STARSPORTS.BET WORLD CUP OUTRIGHT MARKETS ⭐
Rating system:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ World Cup contenders – best teams in the world, realistic chance of winning it.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Strong teams – can win the tournament, but not quite among the top favourites.
⭐⭐⭐ Competitive teams – good enough to reach knockouts, outside chance if things go perfectly.
⭐⭐ Underdogs – can cause problems, but unlikely to go deep.
⭐ Long shots – very unlikely to progress far.
🇫🇷 France ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
France may have the most stacked squad in the tournament – and it’s easy to see why they’re the current starsports.bet favourites to win the World Cup. With elite talent in every position and remarkable depth built around a core entering its prime years, few teams can match their quality on paper. The lingering question is whether Didier Deschamps can fully maximise a generation this gifted; given the options at his disposal, some argue France should have even more silverware to show for it. Still, if this squad clicks, they have the talent to beat anyone.
Group: I (Senegal, Iraq, Norway)
Manager: Didier Deschamps – With rumours that Zinedine Zidane will be taking over post-tournament, this could be Deschamps’ last chance at winning his second trophy as France boss, and he will be desperate to go one better than 2022.
Key player: Kylian Mbappe – He is coming into this World Cup off the back of a difficult and frustrating season with Real Madrid, but Mbappe, on the hunt for his second World Cup in French colours, is still a player capable of deciding matches on his own. The current 5/1 favourite with starsports.bet to win the Golden Boot.
🇪🇸 Spain ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
After winning the European Championship in style, beating England in the final, Spain arrive at the World Cup as one of the clear favourites. They are strong in every area of the pitch, with elite quality in defence, midfield and attack, and arguably no obvious weakness in the squad. Pound for pound, they are one of the best teams in international football. The main concern surrounds Lamine Yamal, who is racing to be fit for the tournament, but if he is available and anywhere near full fitness, Spain will have one of the most dangerous players in world football leading their attack.
Group: H (Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay)
Manager: Luis de la Fuente – Despite his lack of experience at the top level, De la Fuente guided Spain to EURO 2024 glory, and will now he hoping for World Cup success in North America this summer.
Key player: Lamine Yamal – The Barcelona teenager has exploded onto the world stage and already looks like Spain’s next global superstar. This could be the tournament where he truly announces himself as one of the best players in the world.
🏴 England ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
There was plenty of debate around Thomas Tuchel’s squad selection, with a few surprise inclusions and omissions, but the new manager has made it clear he wants to build a team rather than simply squeeze in the biggest names – a trap England have fallen into before. With a proven winner in charge, England have a clear identity, built around getting the best from captain Harry Kane, who arrives after scoring more than 60 goals in all competitions this season. There are still one or two concerns within the squad, but England have the quality, depth and firepower to be genuine contenders.
Group: L (Croatia, Ghana, Panama)
Manager: Thomas Tuchel – England have turned to the Champions League-winning coach in the hope he can finally end decades of hurt on the international stage, building on the foundations set by Gareth Southgate in recent years.
Key player: Harry Kane – The England skipper has finally ended his trophy drought at club level with Bayern Munich, and now will be looking to do the same on the international stage. A born goalscorer and the Three Lions’ biggest hope of success.
🇧🇷 Brazil ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Brazil will, as always, bring flair, creativity and excitement to the World Cup, but there are still questions over whether they remain the dominant force they once were after a series of underwhelming tournament exits. In response, they have turned to serial winner and footballing legend Carlo Ancelotti to restore their place at the top of the game. The ceiling is incredibly high and they have the talent to win the tournament, but Brazil also carry enough uncertainty that another disappointing campaign cannot be ruled out.
Group: C (Morocco, Haiti, Scotland)
Manager: Carlo Ancelotti – One of the most decorated managers in football history, Ancelotti has been brought in to return Brazil to the top of world football.
Key player: Vinicius Junior – Now the star of Brazil’s attack, Vinicius brings frightening pace, flair and confidence to the biggest stage. Few defenders can live with him at full speed, and he’ll be targeting a big tournament.
🇦🇷 Argentina ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Argentina arrive as the team to beat. The defending world champions and Copa America 2024 winners stormed through qualification, carrying the momentum of a golden era under Lionel Scaloni. The core of the Qatar-winning squad remains intact, now bolstered by even greater depth. And with Lionel Messi set for one final World Cup campaign, La Albiceleste have every reason to believe they can make history and go back-to-back.
Group: J (Algeria, Austria, Jordan)
Manager: Lionel Scaloni – Scaloni guided Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022 and knows exactly how to manage knockout football. He will be aiming to become only the second manager in history to win the World Cup twice.
Key player: Lionel Messi – Even in the twilight of his career, one of football’s all-time greats remains capable of deciding the biggest matches with moments of pure genius. In what surely will be his last World Cup, Messi will want to go out with a bang.
🇵🇹 Portugal ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Portugal boast one of the strongest midfields in the tournament and have outstanding depth across the squad. The lingering question is whether they remain too reliant on a past-his-prime Cristiano Ronaldo, whose influence can sometimes limit the freedom of their other attacking talents. If they strike the right balance and get the best from their wealth of creative options, Portugal have all the ingredients for a very strong World Cup campaign.
Group: K (DR Congo, Uzbekistan, Colombia)
Manager: Roberto Martinez – Portugal’s talented squad carries huge expectations again, and the former Swansea City, Wigan Athletic and Everton boss will be expected to finally turn potential into success.
Key player: Bruno Fernandes – Portugal’s creative heartbeat and captain, Fernandes remains the player most capable of unlocking stubborn defences with a single pass. Recently broke the all-time Premier League assist record for Manchester United.
🇩🇪 Germany ⭐⭐⭐⭐
One of the giants of international football, but it’s been a rough couple of World Cups after group-stage exits in both Russia and Qatar. Still, they looked a lot more like themselves at the last Euros and will feel they’re heading in the right direction again. There’s plenty of talent in this squad too – maybe not quite enough to go all the way, but they should be far more competitive than they were in their last two World Cup campaigns.
Group: E (Curacao, Ivory Coast, Ecuador)
Manager: Julian Nagelsmann – Still one of the brightest young coaches in world football, the former Bayern Munich boss guided Germany to the semi-finals of EURO 2024 and will now be targeting a World Cup triumph.
Key player: Jamal Musiala – One of the most exciting attacking midfielders in the game, capable of producing magic in tight matches, Musiala will be hoping to bring World Cup success back to Germany.
🇳🇱 Netherlands ⭐⭐⭐⭐
A very strong side, arguably just a level below the true tournament favourites. They’ve got the quality to compete with anyone, and if everything clicks at the right time, they’re more than capable of making a deep run. They’ve never won the tournament before, but there’s always that sense they’re close – the question is whether this is finally the year it all comes together for Ronald Koeman’s side.
Group: F (Japan, Sweden, Tunisia)
Manager: Ronald Koeman – Leading the Netherlands into his third major tournament as national team boss. He enjoyed success in the Premier League as Southampton manager between 2014 and 2016 before an ill-fated spell in charge of Barcelona.
Key player: Virgil van Dijk – The Netherlands captain remains the leader and organiser at the heart of the Dutch defence. Coming in off the back of a disappointing season at Liverpool, but his experience will be vital if the Dutch are to make a deep run.
🇳🇴 Norway ⭐⭐⭐
Norway’s strengths: Haaland. Haaland. Haaland. If they can get him the ball in the box, he will score goals. And with a creative player like Martin Odegaard also in their side, that’s quite likely. Their domination in their qualifying group is the big reason why Italy aren’t here again, and they’ll be looking to cause more shocks this summer.
Group: I (Iraq, Senegal, France)
Manager: Stale Solbakken – Enjoyed success with FC Copenhagen, winning multiple Danish league titles across two spells. He also briefly managed Koln and Wolverhampton Wanderers before taking charge of Norway’s national team.
Key player: Erling Haaland – One of the world’s most feared strikers, Haaland gives Norway genuine belief they can trouble any team in the tournament. He scored 38 goals in all competitions for Manchester City this season, helping them to a domestic cup double.
🇧🇪 Belgium ⭐⭐⭐⭐
With their much-heralded ‘Golden Generation’ now firmly in the past, Belgium arrive with less pressure and expectation than in previous tournaments, which could work in their favour. The big question is whether they genuinely believe they can challenge for the trophy. They certainly have attacking threat, with the explosive Jérémy Doku on one flank and the reliable creativity of Leandro Trossard on the other. Belgium may not be among the favourites, but they have enough quality to be a dangerous opponent for anyone.
Group: G (Egypt, Iran, New Zealand)
Manager: Rudi Garcia – Best known for winning Ligue 1 with Lille in 2011 against big-spending PSG. He also managed Marseille, Lyon, Roma and Napoli before taking charge of Belgium’s national team last year.
Key player: Jeremy Doku – After some initial inconsistency, Doku has really started to fly in Manchester City colours, and the pacy winger will be hoping to carry that momentum into his second World Cup for Belgium.
🇨🇴 Colombia ⭐⭐⭐
Colombia arrive with momentum after picking up some impressive results in qualifying. Aggressive and energetic, they have a genuine match-winner in Luis Díaz, one of the most productive wide players in world football. They could be pretty strong at this tournament, and I back them to get out of their group, maybe even challenging Portugal for top spot, but ambitions of winning the whole thing are a little pie in the sky.
Group: K (Uzbekistan, DR Congo, Portugal)
Manager: Nestor Lorenzo – Led Colombia to the 2024 Copa América final. Previously an assistant under Jose Pékerman with Colombia and Argentina.
Key player: Luis Diaz – The pacy, dynamic Bayern Munich forward has already netted 21 goals in 72 appearances for Colombia, moving him into the top four on the nation’s all-time scoring charts. He’ll be hoping for a big tournament.
🇯🇵 Japan ⭐⭐⭐
The big concern is injuries, with Brighton’s Kaoru Mitoma the standout omission, leaving them slightly on the back foot from the outset. Even so, this is a technically strong side with plenty of quality throughout the squad. Much will depend on how they cope without some of those key players, but they could be an interesting bet at 3/1 to win their group if they hold together.
Group: F (Netherlands, Tunisia, Sweden)
Manager: Hajime Moriyasu – An experienced coach who has been in charge of the senior team for nearly a decade, Moriyasu guided Japan to the 2022 World Cup knockout stages with memorable victories over both Germany and Spain.
Key player: Take Kubo – The Real Sociedad playmaker, who already has nearly 50 caps to his name by the age of 24, will bring creativity and flair to this Japan side. Has previously been linked with Premier League clubs Aston Villa and Everton, who may well be keeping an eye on him this summer.
🇲🇦 Morocco ⭐⭐⭐
As expected, they cruised through qualifying. After becoming the first African nation ever to reach a World Cup semi-final last time out, expectations are far higher heading into this tournament. They still have plenty of quality across the squad, but matching – let alone surpassing – that historic run will be a challenge for Mohamed Ouahbi’s team.
Group: C (Brazil, Scotland, Haiti)
Manager: Mohamed Ouahbi – Known for his work with young players, he led Morocco’s under-23 side to the U23 AFCON title in 2023. Took the step up to the senior team this year after Walid Regragui quit.
Key player: Achraf Hakimi – Morocco’s biggest star and one of the best right-backs in the world. His pace and energy make him a constant threat going forward and also very strong in defensive situations.
🇺🇸 USA ⭐⭐
Reaching the last-16 at the previous World Cup was solid progress, but the pressure is far higher this time with the tournament back on home soil for the first time since 1994 – hopefully less Diana Ross this time! With Mauricio Pochettino in charge, getting out of the group should be the minimum target, although preparations have been far from ideal. Still, home support could be a huge factor, and they should have every stadium behind them.
Group: D (Paraguay, Australia, Turkey)
Manager: Mauricio Pochettino – In a recent survey, it was revealed 75% of Americans don’t know who Pochettino is, but English football fans certainly will from his time managing in the Premier League at Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea, and also winning the French league with PSG.
Key player: Christian Pulisic – The captain and American poster boy, Pulisic will carry huge expectations heading into a home World Cup. The former Chelsea winger will be central to the USA’s hopes of delivering a landmark tournament on home soil.
🇲🇽 Mexico ⭐⭐⭐
After the disaster of the 2022 World Cup, Mexico will be desperate to make a statement here and come into their group as 5/6 favourites to win it with starsports.bet. They’re physical, organised and tough to play against, with a strong defensive setup that can make life uncomfortable for almost anyone.
Group: A (South Africa, South Korea, Czech Republic)
Manager: Javier Aguirre – Nicknamed “El Vasco”, Aguirre is a vastly experienced coach, currently in his third stint as Mexico’s national team boss, first taking charge in 2001. He has also managed Egypt and Japan in a long and varied career.
Key player: Raul Jimenez – The experienced Fulham striker has also starred for Wolves, Benfica and Atletico Madrid during a well-travelled career. Still a predatory presence in the box, he remains lethal from close range.
🇭🇷 Croatia ⭐⭐⭐
Never the most exciting side to watch under Dalic, but they just know how to get results. Compact, disciplined and dangerous from set-pieces, Croatia always feel like a team you can never fully write off at tournaments – especially with a legend like Luka Modric still around. Huge boost getting Josko Gvardiol back, too, although his fitness could be a concern. After reaching the final and semi-final in their last two World Cups, they will now want to go all the way.
Group: L (England, Panama, Ghana)
Manager: Zlatko Dalic – Croatia’s hugely respected manager has overseen the most successful period in the nation’s football history, guiding them to the 2018 World Cup final and a third-place finish in 2022.
Key player: Luka Modric – Expected to recover from a fractured cheekbone in time for the tournament, Modric is one of Croatia’s greatest ever players, and the former Real Madrid playmaker is still the heartbeat of their side at 40 years of age.
🇪🇨 Ecuador ⭐⭐
Finished above Colombia, Uruguay and Brazil in qualifying. Physical, aggressive and hard to beat, they’ll make life uncomfortable for anyone this summer. They’ve also got a genuinely world-class player in Moises Caicedo. Not flashy, but definitely one of those sides nobody will enjoy facing.
Group: E (Ivory Coast, Curacao, Germany)
Manager: Sebastian Beccacece – Previously managed clubs including Racing Club and Defensa y Justicia, winning the 2020 Copa Sudamericana before taking charge of Ecuador.
Key player: Moises Caicedo – The Chelsea midfielder is the engine of this Ecuador side, covering huge ground in the middle of the park with his relentless box-to-box energy. A new rule amendment means he has avoided a suspension for this World Cup – a huge boost for Ecuador.
🇨🇭 Switzerland ⭐⭐⭐
A team that always seems to be competitive at major tournaments, Switzerland arrive with plenty of momentum after an impressive qualifying campaign. Xherdan Shaqiri is no longer around, but Granit Xhaka remains the driving force and comes in off the back of a superb season with Sunderland. Consistently competitive on the big stage, they look in good position to go well here.
Group: B (Qatar, Bosnia, Canada)
Manager: Murat Yakin – Won back-to-back Swiss titles with FC Basel, also managing FC Spartak Moscow and FC Thun, before leading the Swiss national team to the EURO 2024 quarter-finals.
Key player: Granit Xhaka – The former Arsenal man has been a revelation since his return to the Premier League, leading Sunderland to Europa League qualification in their first season back in the top-flight. He’ll now be hoping to be the beating heart of a successful summer for Switzerland.
🇹🇷 Turkey ⭐⭐⭐
They’ll be desperate to avoid the ‘dark horses’ label that has followed them through previous European Championships as they prepare for their first World Cup since 2002. There’s plenty of technical quality in the squad and enough talent to trouble some of the tournament’s bigger sides. On paper, they probably boast the strongest squad in their group – but past underachievement at major tournaments means they still have something to prove.
Group: D (Australia, Paraguay, USA)
Manager: Vincenzo Montella – After guiding Turkey to the quarter-finals of EURO 2024, Montella will be hoping to have similar success at the World Cup. He’s the first foreign manager to bring Turkey to a European Championship and a World Cup.
Key player: Hakan Calhanoglu – The veteran midfielder, in what could be his last World Cup as Turkey captain, will be full of confidence after leading Inter Milan to the Scudetto this season. A creative player and set-piece specialist.
🇺🇾 Uruguay ⭐⭐⭐
Uruguay are looking to bounce back from a very disappointing 2022 tournament in Qatar, where they were eliminated in the group stage. They have a strong defensive unit, are well organised at the back, and dangerous in transition, but their success may hinge on whether Marcelo Bielsa can fully impose his high-energy style on the squad throughout the tournament. They have a good amount of talent, though, and should fare better than four years ago.
Group: H (Saudi Arabia, Cape Verde, Spain)
Manager: Marcelo Bielsa – Nicknamed “El Loco”, Bielsa is revered for his obsessive preparation and eccentricity, and known in English football for his famous spell in charge of Leeds United, where he led them back to the Premier League. He finds himself under pressure to deliver for Uruguay this summer.
Key player: Federico Valverde – A Rolls-Royce of a midfielder. His ability to dictate games, spray passes around, and produce big moments makes him just as vital for Uruguay as he is for Real Madrid.
🇸🇳 Senegal ⭐⭐⭐
One of the fastest-rising teams in African football, Senegal have continued to build on their recent success despite the controversy surrounding the loss of their AFCON title. They may not welcome the ‘dark horse’ tag, but plenty will see them as exactly that.
Group: I (France, Norway, Iraq)
Manager: Pape Thiaw – Former Senegal international who previously worked with the national team setup before taking over as head coach. He also had coaching spells in Senegalese club football before stepping into the senior national role.
Key player: Sadio Mane – Although he’s now coming into the twilight of his career, Mane is still an important part of this Senegal side. Having starred for clubs such as Liverpool and Bayern Munich, he brings experience and skill and is often the player the team depends on in crucial matches.
🇸🇪 Sweden ⭐⭐
Scraped into the tournament despite a disastrous qualifying campaign, benefiting from their Nations League performance to get over the line. Graham Potter has steadied things and now has a chance to rebuild his reputation after difficult spells at Chelsea and West Ham. With attacking quality like Viktor Gyokeres and Alexander Isak, they’ve got the firepower to trouble teams if things click, but still question marks over what on Earth happened in that qualifying campaign.
Group: F (Tunisia, Netherlands, Japan)
Manager: Graham Potter – Sacked by West Ham at the beginning of the season, managing at a World Cup by the end of it. It has been a rollercoaster of a season for Potter, and he’ll be hoping to cap it off by delivering a positive World Cup campaign for Sweden.
Key player: Alexander Isak – It evidently hasn’t been the debut season at Liverpool that Isak would have been hoping for, but Sweden will still be pinning their hopes on the best version of the Reds striker reemerging in time for the World Cup. He’ll be a big threat if it does.
🇦🇹 Austria ⭐⭐⭐
Austria arrive on the back of an excellent qualifying campaign, losing just once, and continue to impress under Ralf Rangnick’s intense, high-pressing style. Back at the World Cup for the first time since 1998, they will be aiming to reach the knockout stages for the first time since 1982. This is a technically strong and well-drilled side capable of causing problems for anyone, but they may lack the star quality needed to challenge the tournament’s elite.
Group: J (Jordan, Argentina, Algeria)
Manager: Ralf Rangnick – Influential and experienced coach, often credited as a pioneer of modern pressing football. He has managed clubs including RB Leipzig, Hoffenheim and Schalke, before taking charge of Austria after a brief spell as interim boss at Manchester United.
Key player: David Alaba – Having recently departed Real Madrid, Alaba is coming into this tournament looking to put big clubs on alert. Although past his prime years, his experience, leadership, versatility and quality still make him Austria’s star man heading into this World Cup.
🇨🇦 Canada ⭐⭐
In a wide-open group, Canada will fancy their chances of making a mark on home soil. Appearing at just their third World Cup, their aim is simple: reach the knockout stage for the first time. After losing all three matches in 2022, they bounced back impressively to reach the Copa América semi-finals. A with plenty of potential, but the knockout stage will be their target – anything beyond that is a bonus.
Group: B (Bosnia, Qatar, Switzerland)
Manager: Jesse Marsch – After enjoying success as Red Bull Salzburg manager, he endured a difficult spell in England with Leeds United, but will be hoping that guiding Canada to success in this home tournament will help rebuild his reputation in the game.
Key player: Jonathan David – Prolific for both Canada and at club level, the versatile forward has starred for Gent, Lille and now Juventus. Renowned for his clinical finishing, he can operate anywhere across the front line.
🇵🇾 Paraguay ⭐⭐
A counter-attacking side that recovered from a poor start in qualifying to book their first World Cup finals since 2010. A change in manager sparked a turnaround, with greater organisation and a solid defensive structure now in place. They’re not the most expansive team, but they do have some intriguing attacking options and can be dangerous when breaking at speed.
Group: D (USA, Turkey, Australia)
Manager: Gustavo Alfaro – An experienced coach who has managed several clubs across South America, including Boca Juniors, and previously led Ecuador at the 2022 World Cup.
Key player: Julio Enciso – Paraguay’s bright young star, Enciso is known for his creativity, pace, and dribbling. Previously played for Brighton and Ipswich in England; now plies his trade with BlueCo-owned Ligue 1 side Strasbourg, where he’s beginning to show his full potential.
🇨🇿 Czech Republic ⭐⭐
Saw off the Republic of Ireland and Denmark in the play-offs to qualify for their 10th World Cup. A solid, well-balanced side that should be competitive in every game they play. In a very tight Group A, they will have belief that they can make it past the group-stage for the first time since Italia 90, but beyond that, it would be a bit of a surprise to see them win a knockout game at this tournament.
Group: A (South Korea, South Africa, Mexico)
Manager: Miroslav Koubek – A vastly experienced Czech coach, Koubek has managed a host of clubs across the Czech top flight, including Viktoria Plzeň, Slavia Prague and Bohemians 1905.
Key player: Patrik Schick – Rose to prominence at EURO 2020 after scoring five goals, which included an amazing halfway-line strike against Scotland. Bagged 16 Bundesliga goals for Bayer Leverkusen last season, so coming into the tournament in good form.
🇨🇮 Ivory Coast ⭐⭐
Plenty of attacking talent in this squad and that should give them real belief they can finally reach the knockout stages of a World Cup. Players like Yan Diomande and Amad Diallo are always exciting to watch. If they do get through the group, though, it’s hard to see them going too much further – but even reaching the knockouts would be history them.
Group: E (Ecuador, Germany, Curacao)
Manager: Emerse Fae – Stepped in during the 2024 AFCON and ended up leading Ivory Coast to victory on home soil. Fae, who previously coached the nation’s U23 side, will now be targeting World Cup success.
Key player: Yan Diomande – One of the most electric dribblers in world football, the 19-year-old looks primed for a true breakout tournament following an impressive season in the Bundesliga with RB Leipzig. Big European clubs could be keeping a close eye.
🏴 Scotland ⭐⭐
Outstanding in qualifying, finishing above Denmark and Greece to win the group. Reaching tournaments has become a habit in recent years, but making an impact once there is still the next step after consecutive early exits. With Scott McTominay and John McGinn leading a strong midfield, they’ll believe they have the quality to compete in a tough group, but can they deliver?
Group: C (Haiti, Morocco, Brazil)
Manager: Steve Clarke – Clarke has transformed Scotland into a consistent tournament qualifier, but the Tartan Army have yet to make a splash at the finals of any tournament they have been at. He will be hoping this is the summer they can make it happen.
Key player: Scott McTominay – Scotland’s engine in midfield. His energy, physical presence, and knack for arriving in the box at the right time make the Napoli midfielder one of the Tartan Army’s most important players.
🇩🇿 Algeria ⭐⭐
Back at the World Cup after missing out in 2022, Algeria topped their qualifying group in impressive fashion. They possess plenty of flair and technical quality, with an attack-minded approach that can trouble opponents. The concern is at the other end, where their adventurous style could leave them exposed against stronger sides.
Group: J (Argentina, Jordan, Austria)
Manager: Vladimir Petkovic – Brings plenty of international experience, having guided Switzerland to the knockout stages at two European Championships, and will be hoping to use that know-how with Algeria this summer.
Key player: Riyad Mahrez – One of Algeria’s most decorated players, enjoying Premier League success with Leicester City and Manchester City before moving to the Saudi Pro League in 2023. Although not quite the player he was during the Foxes’ 5000/1 title win, Mahrez still has game-changing ability.
🇧🇦 Bosnia and Herzegovina ⭐⭐
Bosnia earned their place the hard way, stunning Italy in the play-offs to deny them another World Cup appearance. That achievement alone will give them belief in what is a wide-open group, with second place a realistic target. They have enough quality to be competitive, but not enough to make a serious impact on the latter stages of the tournament.
Group: B (Canada, Switzerland, Qatar)
Manager: Sergej Barbarez – In his first senior managerial role, Barbarez was thrown into the deep end as the head coach of his country in 2024, and will be hoping his side can cause some shocks at this World Cup.
Key player: Edin Dzeko – Will join an illustrious list of players, which includes Peter Shilton, Dino Zoff and Roger Milla, to play at a World Cup at the age of 40 this summer. In the season just gone, Dzeko helped Schalke return to the Bundesliga.
🇰🇷 South Korea ⭐⭐
A solid technical side that likes to control games through possession. They still have a genuine star in Son Heung-min, although he’s probably not quite as explosive as he once was. In what looks like a very open group, they’ll definitely fancy their chances of getting through, but may not go much further than the round-of-32.
Group: A (Czech Republic, Mexico, South Africa)
Manager: Hong Myung-bo – The former defender captained South Korea at multiple World Cups, and is now in his second spell as head coach of the national team and set for his second World Cup in charge after leading them into the 2014 tournament.
Key player: Son Heung-min – South Korea’s all-time record goalscorer may be in the twilight of his career after moving from Tottenham Hotspur to LAFC last year, but he’s still a clinical finisher and will play more centrally this summer.
🇪🇬 Egypt ⭐⭐
The most successful side in African football history, yet amazingly they’ve still never won a game at a World Cup. They’ll be desperate to change that this summer. Having former Liverpool man Mohamed Salah gives them a real cutting edge going forward, and when you’ve got a player of that quality, you’re always capable of causing problems.
Group: G (Belgium, New Zealand, Iran)
Manager: Hossam Hassan – A very experienced journeyman manager in Egyptian football. Enjoyed four separate spells with Al Masry, among many other clubs, before becoming the national team coach in 2024.
Key player: Mohamed Salah – Left Liverpool at the end of this season after a thoroughly successful period at Anfield, where he won the Premier League twice and the Champions League. He’ll be mulling over his next move this summer, but not before he tries to fire Egypt to success.
🇦🇺 Australia ⭐⭐
Expect a low-possession, compact side determined to frustrate opponents. It may not be the prettiest football, but it can be effective, and that pragmatic mindset will define the Aussies at this tournament. Strong defensively and difficult to break down, they won’t give much away and will aim to be awkward opponents, which they hope will be enough to get them out of a tight group.
Group: D (Turkey, USA, Paraguay)
Manager: Tony Popovic – The former Australia defender rose to prominence by leading Western Sydney Wanderers to the 2014 AFC Champions League title. He has also managed Perth Glory, Melbourne Victory and clubs in Turkey and Greece.
Key player: Riley McGree – A disappointing end to his season, having lost the Championship play-off final with Middlesbrough, but McGree, known for his high work-rate and eye for a goal, will still be the main man in the engine room for Australia this summer.
🇬🇭 Ghana ⭐⭐
You know what you’re getting from a Carlos Queiroz team: compact, defensive and hoping to cause problems on the break. That could suit Ghana with Antoine Semenyo’s pace up front – few players in the Premier League can match him for speed. Losing Mohammed Salisu is a blow though, especially defensively.
Group: L (Panama, England, Croatia)
Manager: Carlos Queiroz – No stranger to international football, having managed Iran, Colombia, Egypt, Qatar and Oman. His sides are typically organised, stubborn and difficult to break down, but to maximise the attacking talent at his disposal, Queiroz may need to show greater tactical flexibility.
Key player: Antoine Semenyo – Has started to reach new levels since his big-money move from Bournemouth to Manchester City in January. His pace, skill, and movement should cause problems for defences this summer.
🇮🇷 Iran ⭐⭐
Iran have become known as a stubborn, difficult side to break down at recent World Cups, regularly causing problems for bigger nations. But despite being consistently competitive, they’ve still never reached the knockout stages. This is an experienced squad, although arguably an ageing one, and there’s also been off-field attention around their participation after political tensions earlier this year.
Group: G (New Zealand, Belgium, Egypt)
Manager: Amir Ghalenoei – As experienced as they come, Ghalenoei has amassed nearly 700 games as a manager, which included his first stint as Iran boss between 2006 and 2007. Will be looking to prove his critics wrong this summer.
Key player: Mehdi Taremi – The experienced striker has starred for Porto and Inter Milan. Iran’s all-time second-highest scorer, he combines clever movement with a ruthless eye for goal.
🇹🇳 Tunisia ⭐⭐
Tunisia have reached the World Cup seven times but have never progressed beyond the group stage. They arrive with a strong defensive reputation, having gone through their entire qualifying campaign without conceding a goal. That said, questions remain about their overall quality. In a difficult but unpredictable group, however, they will still sense an opportunity to finally break new ground.
Group: F (Sweden, Japan, Netherlands)
Manager: Sabri Lamouchi – The former Nottingham Forest and Cardiff City boss took charge of Tunisia earlier this year. He already has international experience from his time with Ivory Coast, where he managed stars such as Yaya Toure and Didier Drogba.
Key player: Ellyes Skhiri – Everything seems to run through the Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder. He brings calm and balance to Tunisia’s midfield, wins the ball back constantly and helps turn defence into attack.
🇨🇩 Congo DR ⭐⭐
Built on a solid defensive foundation, DR Congo should be difficult to break down and capable of staying competitive in games. However, with Portugal and Colombia in their group, it is hard to see them challenging for the top two places. Their main battle may be for third, and hoping that’s enough to get them through.
Group: K (Portugal, Colombia, Uzbekistan)
Manager: Sebastien Desabre – A true football journeyman, the French coach has managed in more than 10 countries across Africa, Asia and the Middle East. He was most recently with Chamois Niortais before taking on the Congo job in 2022.
Key player: Yoane Wissa – It has obviously been a disappointing debut season at Newcastle United after his big-money move from Brentford last summer, but Wissa is still the main focal point for this Congo DR attack, and they will be hoping he’ll be able to recapture his best form.
🇨🇻 Cape Verde ⭐⭐
One of the surprise stories of World Cup qualifying, securing their first-ever appearance on football’s biggest stage after finishing above Cameroon. Still a relatively young football nation, having played their first international match in 1978, they impressed throughout qualification and deserve their spot. Expected to battle Saudi Arabia for third place in their group, but if they can replicate their qualifying form, this great story could get better.
Group: H (Spain, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia)
Manager: Bubista – The 56-year-old, who has managed five teams at club level in Cape Verde, was named 2025 CAF Men’s Coach of the Year after Cape Verde’s shock World Cup qualification.
Key player: Ryan Mendes – The former Nottingham Forest winger, who spent a season on loan with the Tricky Trees a decade ago, is Cape Verde’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped player.
🇳🇿 New Zealand ⭐⭐
A well-organised side that will look to frustrate teams and hit on the counter. They’ve actually got a decent chance of making some history too, helped by the fact Group G is probably one of the weaker ones at the tournament. Their defence will definitely be tested, but they do carry a threat going forward, especially with Nottingham Forest striker Chris Wood leading the line. If they were to make it past this group, though, they’d be on borrowed time in the knockout rounds.
Group: G (Iran, Egypt, Belgium)
Manager: Darren Bazeley – Bazeley, born in Northampton and who was capped once for the England U21 national side as a player, has worked his way up through the New Zealand national team set-up since coaching the U20 side in 2013.
Key player: Chris Wood – Didn’t quite light up the Premier League for Nottingham Forest in the way he did in the 2024/25 season, where he bagged 20 league goals, but the 34-year-old striker is still the man that the All Whites will be pinning their hopes on.
🇶🇦 Qatar ⭐
Given a free pass as hosts in 2022, Qatar have earned their place this time and will be determined to put up a far better showing than their dismal home World Cup campaign. Even in a tight-looking group, though, it’s hard to see them lasting long in the tournament.
Group: B (Switzerland, Canada, Bosnia)
Manager: Julen Lopetegui – Hoping to avoid being sacked on the eve of the tournament like he was by Spain before the 2018 World Cup. He likes a possession style of play, but will have to work around the Qatar squad’s fairly limited skillset.
Key player: Akram Afif – Qatar’s most decorated player, renowned for winning two AFC Player of the Year awards and the Golden Ball at the 2023 Asian Cup, as well as collecting over 130 international caps before the age of 30.
🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia ⭐
Achieved back-to-back qualifications after a tough qualifying campaign, but arrive at this World Cup in a place of chaos after a late change of coach with Georgios Donis replacing Herve Renard earlier this year. The magic that allowed them to beat eventual champions Argentina at the last World Cup appears to have faded. With Cape Verde also in their group, they will hope for third-place, but their stay at this World Cup could be brief.
Group: H (Uruguay, Spain, Cape Verde)
Manager: Georgios Donis – Experienced coach who has been managing in Saudi Arabia since 2021, taking charge of four different teams. Stepping in at late notice following the sacking of former Cambridge United manager Herve Renard.
Key player: Salem Al-Dawsari – The 2025 AFC Player of the Year is renowned for his dribbling and goalscoring abilities. The 34-year-old has been with Al-Hilal since 2011, apart from a brief spell on loan with Villarreal, and has over 100 caps for Saudi Arabia.
🇿🇦 South Africa ⭐
A brave, fearless team that’s going to have a real go. They’ll bring energy and intensity, and that kind of underdog mentality can carry you a long way in tournament football if luck is on your side. They do rely quite a bit on Lyle Foster for goals though, and overall they might just fall short when it comes to quality and depth.
Group: A (Mexico, Czech Republic, South Korea)
Manager: Hugo Broos – The 74-year-old, who brings a wealth of experience with him having started his well-travelled managerial career in 1988, will officially retire from coaching after this tournament. He’d love to go out with a bang.
Key player: Lyle Foster – The Burnley forward has developed his career across South Africa, Belgium and England. A strong, mobile striker with Premier League experience, he is one of South Africa’s key attacking outlets.
🇨🇼 Curacao ⭐
Incredible that they’re even here. Whatever happens this summer, qualifying for the World Cup is already a huge achievement for a country with a population of just 150,000 – the smallest nation ever to do it. It’s hard to see them making a deep run, but they should enjoy the ride nonetheless.
Group: E (Germany, Ecuador, Ivory Coast)
Manager: Dick Advocaat – Recently returned to the Curacao job after briefly stepping away for family reasons. A former manager of the Netherlands, South Korea, and Sunderland, the 78-year-old is set to become the oldest manager in World Cup history.
Key player: Tahith Chong – The former Netherlands youth international committed to Curacao last year and has already scored twice in his first four appearances. Despite a mixed season with Sheffield United, he remains a threat.
🇮🇶 Iraq ⭐
Disciplined and organised, Iraq won’t be pushovers. However, they lack the individual quality and depth of the tournament’s stronger sides, making a deep run very unlikely. Stranger things have happened at World Cups, but simply being competitive would represent a successful campaign.
Group: I (Norway, France, Senegal)
Manager: Graham Arnold – A two-time Australia manager, Arnold took charge of Iraq last year as the successor to Jesus Casas. Most of his coaching career has been spent in Australian club and international football, although he also had a short stint in Japan in 2014.
Key player: Aymen Hussein – A prolific and experienced striker, who has played club football in Iraq, Tunisia and Qatar, he currently holds the record as his country’s all-time leading goal scorer.
🇵🇦 Panama ⭐
Panama only need one point to make history, having lost every single one of their World Cup finals matches to date. They’ll play brave, attacking football and should be good fun to watch, but getting out of one of the toughest groups at this World Cup feels a step too far for me. A likeable team – but nice guys finish last.
Group: L (Ghana, Croatia, England)
Manager: Thomas Christiansen – Best known to English football fans for his brief and largely unsuccessful spell as Leeds United manager, he appears to have found a footballing home with Panama, whom he has managed since 2020, and achieved great things.
Key player: Ismael Diaz – Tricky winger, who has delivered goals in both MLS and the Panamanian league, carrying his strong scoring form into the CONCACAF Nations League and Gold Cup.
🇺🇿 Uzbekistan ⭐
One of the tournament’s great unknowns, Uzbekistan are making their World Cup debut and will be eager to prove they belong on this stage. Realistically, third place in the group may be their target, with a battle against DR Congo likely to decide it. They will also hope some of the World Cup magic of coach Fabio Cannavaro can rub off on them.
Group: K (Colombia, Portugal, DR Congo)
Manager: Fabio Cannavaro – He has lifted this trophy as a player, captaining Italy to World Cup glory 20 years ago, which earned him the Ballon d’Or. So far, his managerial career hasn’t been as successful as his playing career, but he knows how to navigate this competition.
Key player: Abdukodir Khusanov – Starting to become an important part of Manchester City’s defence since making the move to the Premier League from Lens last year. Surely possesses the potential to be one of the all-time stars of Uzbekistan.
🇯🇴 Jordan ⭐
Making their World Cup debut, Jordan arrive with a few exciting attacking options and a positive approach, but find themselves in a group where the step up in quality may prove too much. A memorable first World Cup experience looks more likely than a serious challenge for qualification through to the knockouts.
Group: J (Austria, Algeria, Argentina)
Manager: Jamal Sellami – Former Moroccan international defender who built his coaching reputation in domestic football, leading Raja Casablanca to league success before taking charge of Jordan’s national team.
Key player: Musa Al-Taamari – Jordan’s standout attacking star, who became the first Jordanian to play in Ligue 1 after winning a league title with APOEL in Cyprus.
🇭🇹 Haiti ⭐
Back at the World Cup for the first time since 1974. As one of the outsiders, they’ll mainly be looking to enjoy the occasion, with anything beyond that a bonus. But, with some solid attacking options, including Sunderland forward Wilson Isidor, and plenty of physicality, Haiti will strive to be competitive and not be easy pushovers, even if they lack the overall quality of most of the nations at this tournament.
Group: C (Scotland, Brazil, Morocco)
Manager: Sebastien Migne – Has previously managed Congo and Kenya, and was also assistant to Rigobert Song with Cameroon. He managed to guide Haiti to World Cup qualification despite having never set foot in the country due to the ongoing conflict.
Key player: Wilson Isidor – After choosing to represent Haiti internationally in March, Isidor has earned just two caps so far, but having a Premier League striker lead the line is a huge boost for Haiti at this World Cup.
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