World Cup 2026 Group Stage Forecasts: Which Teams Will Advance to the Round of 32?

World Cup 2026 Group Stage Predictions

The largest World Cup ever unfolds across North America from June 11 to July 19, with Argentina set to defend their title won in Qatar 2022. Among the top contenders are European giants France and Spain, while England aims to break a six-decade drought without a major international trophy. The tournament’s expansion also brings new faces like Curacao and Iraq, offering fresh chances for surprising runs.

Group A: Mexico, South Korea, Czechia, South Africa

Mexico enjoys home advantage and a draw that looks favorable on paper. Returning to the World Cup after 2010, South Africa faces a tough group. South Korea appears well-positioned to secure second place, marking a farewell for star Son Heung-min. Czechia had to win a playoff via penalties just to qualify.

Group B: Switzerland, Canada, Qatar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina shocked Italy to qualify, shaking up this group. Canada, despite hosting, is ranked 30th globally but has the home crowd. Switzerland should lead the pack, while Qatar hopes to build on recent Asian Cup wins.

Group C: Scotland, Morocco, Brazil, Haiti

Brazil, under Carlo Ancelotti, chases its sixth title. Morocco, fresh off an AFCON win, looks set to challenge. Scotland aims for its first knockout stage appearance in years, while Haiti is the underdog.

Group D: USA, Australia, Turkey, Paraguay

Host nation USA starts strong but faces stiff competition from Australia, Turkey, and Paraguay. Each team is capable of upsetting the others, making this a tightly contested group.

Group E: Germany, Ivory Coast, Ecuador, Curacao

Germany aims to avoid another early exit after two disappointing tournaments. Their opener against Curacao should be smooth, but Ivory Coast and Ecuador could cause trouble if Germany falters.

Group F: Sweden, Japan, Netherlands, Tunisia

This group might be the toughest. Japan has impressed recently and could top the group over the Netherlands. Sweden showed strength opening against Tunisia, who have struggled in past tournaments.

Group G: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand

Belgium and Egypt should advance with stars like Kevin De Bruyne and Mohamed Salah leading. Iran faces extra challenges due to political and visa issues, making it hard for them to progress.

Group H: Spain, Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay

Spain benefits from a schedule that eases them into the group, with their toughest opponent, Uruguay, coming last. Both are expected to lead the group, while Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde hope to cause surprises.

Group I: France, Senegal, Iraq, Norway

A headline clash between Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland happens when Norway meets France. Fans expect both European teams to qualify easily, but Senegal could make a move if either slips. Iraq qualified impressively through playoffs and pre-tournament friendlies.

Group J: Argentina, Algeria, Austria, Jordan

Argentina looks to avoid a shaky start like in Qatar 2022, especially against Algeria. Austria impressed at Euro 2024 and could fight for second place. Jordan enters as underdogs hoping for surprises.

Group K: Portugal, DR Congo, Uzbekistan, Colombia

Cristiano Ronaldo returns for his sixth World Cup. The group appears straightforward with Portugal and Colombia expected to advance, while newcomers Uzbekistan and DR Congo aim for standout moments rather than progression.

Group L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama

England hopes Thomas Tuchel’s leadership ends their streak of near misses. They open against familiar foes Croatia, known for their 2018 semi-final upset. Ghana and Panama face tough tasks, with Ghana missing recent AFCON qualification.