Join now and get your first month for just $1<\/a>.<\/p>\nGROUP E<\/p>\n
GERMANY<\/p>\n
The last four years have been a massive culture shock for the German national team. For so long, they were arguably Europe\u2019s great footballing powerhouse, but now, they\u2019re in a period of transition. Legendary figures like Mats Hummels, Toni Kroos and Thomas Muller have dropped out, and it\u2019s a huge ask for their replacements to step into the shoes of some of the century\u2019s greatest footballers. However, with young stars like Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz, they\u2019re still a force to be reckoned with. <\/p>\n
Key Player: Florian Wirtz<\/p>\n
Despite a mixed season with Liverpool, the young German attacking midfielder is still widely regarded as one of the premier talents in all of football. Silky with the ball at his feet, with a keen eye for a pass and the ability to shoot off both feet, he is majestic to watch at his best. With Germany shorn of a truly top striker, much of the attacking burden will be placed on Wirtz and his fellow number 10, Jamal Musiala.<\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Round of 16<\/p>\n
CURA\u00c7AO<\/p>\n
One of several teams playing their first world cup in 2026, Cura\u00e7ao\u2019s participation in this tournament is an amazing achievement. The smallest nation to ever qualify for a World Cup, this team is a footballing phenomenon of a different sort. However, they will be desperate to prove their merit against some of the world\u2019s best. Playing in CONCACAF, they have finished in a group containing historically much stronger footballing nations in Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago. They\u2019ll be keen to spring a shock at the World Cup.<\/p>\n
Key Player: Leandro Bacuna<\/p>\n
Cura\u00e7ao are a nation with several players who came through the youth ranks of Dutch football, and their captain Bacuna is no different. The 34-year-old midfielder spent much of his career in the Premier League but is now playing in Turkey. His strength in the tackle and positional intelligence will be essential in leading a team that is so lacking in major tournament experience.<\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Group Stage<\/p>\n
Eriksen goes down in terrifying scare | 00:23<\/p>\n
COTE D\u2019IVOIRE<\/p>\n
Another African nation who have flattered to deceive at previous World Cups and will be looking to change that this time around. The Elephants boast a plethora of young stars but retain an experienced core in the likes of Franck Kessie and Ibrahim Sangare. Despite being in a tough group with Germany and Ecuador, they\u2019ll remain confident of reaching the knockout stages.<\/p>\n
Key player: Franck Kessie<\/p>\n
The 99-cap midfielder will move into triple figures at the World Cup and he will be key to their ambitions. Despite not being the same player, he was at the peak of his powers, he is still a force to be reckoned with in midfield, and provides the experience needed in a team loaded with young stars like Bazoumana Toure and Yan Diomande. <\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Round of 16<\/p>\n
ECUADOR<\/p>\n
While many of South America\u2019s football nations are known for their flair and attacking football, this Ecuador team is hailed instead for its defensive solidity. Possessing a selection of centre backs who would be the envy of any team in the world and, in Moises Caicedo, one of the world\u2019s best holding midfielders, they are a defensive powerhouse. They conceded just five goals across 18 qualifiers in qualifying for the tournament and will be an awkward opponent for any team.<\/p>\n
Key player: Willian Pacho<\/p>\n
While Moises Caicedo may be the star name in this team, PSG\u2019s Champions League winning centre back Pacho will be the key for Ecuador. Playing on the left side of their back 3, his exceptional passing and game reading will be key if he is to help Ecuador maintain their durability through the tournament.<\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Round of 16<\/p>\n
ROTTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – JUNE 03: Frenkie de Jong of Netherlands in action during the international friendly match between Netherlands and Algeria at De Kuip on June 03, 2026 in Rotterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos\/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n
GROUP F<\/p>\n
NETHERLANDS<\/p>\n
The Netherlands are a perennial case of always the bridesmaid, never the bride at World Cups. Three finals and zero trophies is a heartbreaking statistic the Dutch will be desperate to break. However, this is a side lacking in the star power of yesteryear. Gone are the days of Wesley Sneijder, Arjen Robben and Robin Van Persie, this is a tough, hard to beat side. However, it\u2019s hard to see that being enough to advance into the latter stages of the tournament. <\/p>\n
Key Player: Frenkie de Jong<\/p>\n
While captain and talisman Virgil Van Dijk will be essential in defence, the Dutch midfield is what will win many of their matches, and De Jong is the standout. Blessed with astounding technical ability and a fixed place in arguably the finest midfield in club football, De Jong\u2019s press resistance and ability to break lines with both his dribbling and passing range will be vital as the tournament goes on. Coming into the tournament under a fitness cloud, the Netherlands will be praying that he\u2019s back at his best for the start of the tournament.<\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Round of 32<\/p>\n
JAPAN<\/p>\n
Asia\u2019s premier footballing side is a true dark horse in this tournament. They beat England in the last international break and have a well-earned reputation for fast, technical football. Regulars in the knockout stages, they\u2019ll be expected to make a run into the knockout stages and give some of the world\u2019s best a scare. Flush with players at the top level, keep an eye on the Samurai Blue when the World Cup kicks off.<\/p>\n
Key Player: Ritsu Doan<\/p>\n
Doan follows a proud tradition of Japanese footballers finding their feet in the Bundesliga, and with usual captain Wataru Endo out with a serious ankle injury, he has stepped in as captain. His attacking instincts and engine will be invaluable to Japan as they look to make a mark on the tournament. If Japan can get him forward and taking shots, he\u2019ll be a serious threat down the right-hand side. <\/p>\n
Fox Sports Prediction: Round of 32<\/p>\n
TOKYO, JAPAN – MAY 31: Ritsu Doan is Japan\u2019s key man.Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n
TUNISIA<\/p>\n
Tunisia has a reputation of also-rans at World Cups, often making the group stages, but always unlikely to advance. Sadly, in this group, they look likely to suffer a similar fate. Their recent results have not given a huge amount of hope, with their only win in their last five games coming in a 1-0 win over Haiti. However, as with all World Cups, the so-called smaller nations are always ready to throw a spanner in the works, so don\u2019t completely write them off.<\/p>\n
Key Player: Ellyes Shkri<\/p>\n
A regular for Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt, Shkri\u2019s experience at the base of the Tunisian midfield will be essential in making sure they can frustrate their illustrious opponents. A clever midfielder, Shkri\u2019s reading of the game will be key in shutting down opposition attacks, with the Tunisian captain a trustworthy user of the ball, recycling possession to maintain the tempo for his side. For Tunisia to succeed, they\u2019ll need him to platform talented youngsters like Hannibal and Sebastian Tounketi.<\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Group Stage<\/p>\n
SWEDEN<\/p>\n
For a team who usually represent Scandinavia\u2019s best footballing sides, Sweden has been unusually poor of late. However, the appointment of Graham Potter has seen them scrape into the World Cup via the playoffs. They will need to show great improvement if they expect to be able to advance far in the tournament, let alone get out of the group. <\/p>\n
Key Player: Viktor Gyokores<\/p>\n
While his strike partner Alexander Isak has nominally returned to fitness, given the Liverpool striker\u2019s issues with form this season, the pressure will be on Gyokores to deliver for Sweden. The big Arsenal striker is an athletic specimen, and his sheer physicality can make him a nightmare for defenders. His speed and power will always see him able to get onto the end of chances, and Sweden will need him to take them to advance in the tournament.<\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Group Stage<\/p>\n
GROUP G<\/p>\n
BELGIUM<\/p>\n
Belgium is a country struggling to define itself in European football. Since losing the 2018 World Cup semi-final, the Red Devils have seen legendary players like Vincent Kompany and Eden Hazard retire and have struggled to maintain their status as true heavyweights. However, underestimating Belgium is still a dangerous business. There\u2019s still plenty of talent in their squad, even if they are lacking the same star power of that 2018 tournament.<\/p>\n
Key player: Romelu Lukaku<\/p>\n
You would think that a player with 89 goals in 124 international caps would be a must play starter for his national team. But Romelu Lukaku\u2019s fitness has seen his club career come to a grinding halt. At his best, he\u2019s almost unplayable, technically sound, immensely strong, calm in front of goal and with a devilish burst of speed, but we haven\u2019t seen it in too long. Belgium need the Lukaku of old if they\u2019re to succeed in North America.<\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Quarter Final<\/p>\n
Belgium’s Romelu Lukaku.Source: AP<\/p>\n
EGYPT<\/p>\n
Egypt\u2019s recent record in major tournaments has been a heartbreaking one. Too often the bridesmaid and never the bride. However, they have assembled a talented squad, headlined by two of the best forwards in Europe, so they\u2019ll be confident of causing a shock or two. Semi-finalists at the African Cup of Nations, this is a side brimming with nous and possessing winners of trophies at the highest level.<\/p>\n
Key Player: Mohamed Salah<\/p>\n
Perhaps the most talked about footballer in the Premier League, Salah might be relieved to get to the Egyptian national team and away from the spotlight around his Liverpool departure. Salah will be desperate to improve on Egypt\u2019s poor showing in his last World Cup, and his ability to break open a game will be essential to any hopes of progressing to the latter stages.<\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Round of 16 <\/p>\n
IRAN<\/p>\n
Iran are a giant of Asian football, and a near ever-present at recent major tournaments. While they were forced to suffer the ignominy of a group stage exit at the previous World Cup, they\u2019ll be confident of a stronger showing this time. Despite the shadow of the current political situation surrounding Iranian and US relations, you can be sure Iran will represent a stern test as they eye a place in the knockout stages.<\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Mehdi Tahremi<\/p>\n
The Olympiakos target man has been Iran\u2019s headline maker and key goalscorer for years, with his spectacular goals against England at the 2022 tournament a particular highlight. A serial winner, Taremi is a player of supreme positional intelligence, knowing exactly where to pop up in the box to score. With 57 goals in 102 matches for his country, his goalscoring touch will be essential to Iran\u2019s plans for a knockout stages place.<\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Group Stage<\/p>\n
NEW ZEALAND<\/p>\n
Playing at the World Cup is in itself a win for New Zealand, and they\u2019ll be keen to make a big impression on the tournament. Out of the shadow of Australia, New Zealand have dominated football in Oceania and while they go into the tournament as minnows, they\u2019ll be hoping to cause a shock or two. However, in a group brimming with top level experience, advancing to the knockout stages may be a step too far.<\/p>\n
Key Player: Chris Wood<\/p>\n
A journeyman striker who struck gold last year, Wood is easily the biggest name in the All Whites lineup. A genuine threat to Premier League standard defenders, he can be a defender\u2019s nightmare. Possessing excellent movement and brilliant hold up play, he\u2019ll be key in relieving pressure from New Zealand\u2019s defenders, who are sure to be under pressure in their games.<\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Group Stage<\/p>\n
TAMPA, FLORIDA – JUNE 06: Chris Wood #9 of New Zealand during the international friendly match between England and New Zealand at Raymond James Stadium on June 06, 2026 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Richard Pelham\/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n
GROUP H<\/p>\n
Spain<\/p>\n
Spain will undoubtedly go into the World Cup among the favourites, the 2024 European Champions boast arguably the best attacker and midfielder on the planet, in Pedri and Lamine Yamal. However, despite their young stars, they also have the experienced campaigners all teams need when they aim for tournament wins. Rodri, Mikael Oyarzabal and Aymeric Laporte are all experienced campaigners who know exactly what is needed to win.<\/p>\n
Key player: Lamine Yamal<\/p>\n
Much as the temptation is to put Pedri or Rodri, Spain\u2019s key player is and surely will be for most of his career Yamal. The 18-year-old is one of the greatest teenagers to ever play the game. His maverick ability to pull off an astounding piece of skill is exactly what\u2019s needed in tight games, and as the heir apparent to Lionel Messi, he is well placed to match his idol\u2019s crowning achievement of winning the World Cup. <\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Semi Final (4th place)<\/p>\n
CAPE VERDE<\/p>\n
For Cape Verde, making the trip to the World Cup is an incredible achievement. For a country with a population of just half a million to make the tournament is truly remarkable. Qualifying ahead of traditional African giants Cameroon is no mean feat either, however, any expectations that they could advance to the knockouts are probably in vain. <\/p>\n
Key Player: Wagner Pina<\/p>\n
Flying wing back Pina has been a revelation in the Turkish Super League for Trabzonspor this season. He\u2019s one of the few Cape Verde players with top European experience, and at just 23-years-old has the capacity to be one of the country\u2019s greatest ever players. A pacey and attack minded full back, he has recorded nine assists in all competitions from right back for the Turkish giants. <\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Group Stage<\/p>\n
SAUDI ARABIA<\/p>\n
The green Falcons produced one of the biggest shocks of the last World Cup when they managed to upset champions-to-be Argentina in the group stage. One of Asian football\u2019s traditional heavyweights, and now with players facing some of the world\u2019s best in the Saudi Pro League, they\u2019ll have eyes on a place in the knockouts. However, advancing from a group containing Uruguay and Spain is a big ask.<\/p>\n
Key Player: Mohamed Kanno<\/p>\n
While youngsters such as Marwan Al-Sahafi and Musab Al-Juwayr are making big names for theselves, it is midfield general Kanno who will be key to making sure Saudi Arabia are a hit at the world cup. The 31-year-old is an ever-present in PIF backed side Al Hilal, and with 72 caps, his experience will be an essential asset in a team full of younger talents.<\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Group Stage<\/p>\n
URUGUAY<\/p>\n
Despite being some way short of their 2010-2016 best, Uruguay will still represent a dangerous prospect at the World Cup. With a squad littered with experienced players in the world\u2019s top leagues, they\u2019ll be confident of causing issues for the world\u2019s top sides. Coach Marcelo Bielsa is also a major factor for the Uruguayan\u2019s success, with Pep Guardiola\u2019s idol ready to attempt to bring Uruguay their third world cup.<\/p>\n
Key Player: Federico Valverde<\/p>\n
The Real Madrid midfielder is one of the game\u2019s true all-rounders and will be key to any success Uruguay has at the tournament. With Manuel Ugarte and Rodrigo Bentancur providing a defensive barrier in midfield, Valverde\u2019s athleticism and shooting power will be one of Uruguay\u2019s major offensive threats.<\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Round of 32<\/p>\n
Uruguay’s national football team coach, Argentine Marcelo Bielsa.Source: AFP<\/p>\n
GROUP I<\/p>\n
IRAQ<\/p>\n
Managed by former Socceroos coach Graham Arnold, Iraq will be coming into this tournament for their first World Cup appearance in 40 years. If Iraq are able to get a win in a group containing three of world football\u2019s genuine heavyweights it would be a tremendous achievement. While they may be lacking in stars, Graham Arnold is a highly experience coach and knows exactly how to set up a sturdy defence to frustrate more fancied opponents.<\/p>\n
Key Player: Aymen Hussain<\/p>\n
Iraq\u2019s captain and top goalscorer, Hussain will be essential to any Iraqi hopes of landing a blow on their formidable group opponents. The Al-Karma striker has been in excellent club form, scoring nine goals in just 16 appearances for his club, and has 32 goals in his 89 caps so far. If he can replicate his club form in the World Cup, Iraq may be able to ruffle a few feathers in their group.<\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Group Stage<\/p>\n
FRANCE<\/p>\n
Since 2018, France have been nearly men, losing in the semi-finals of Euro 2024 and the final of the 2022 World Cup. However, it would be a deadly mistake to doubt them. Boasting possibly the biggest pool of talent in world football, the French are well positioned to win their third World Cup. This will also be the last tournament for the French coach Dider Deschamps, with Zinedine Zidane widely touted to be taking the position after the World Cup.<\/p>\n
Key Player: Kylian Mbappe<\/p>\n
Mbappe\u2019s time at Real Madrid has been a mixed bag, but his talent is undeniable. He also has a history of coming to life in the World Cup. His performance in the 2022 final is one of the greatest in World Cup history on a losing side. For an Argentine defence that had been so resolute, his pace, trickery and sheer daring frightened the life out of the champions to be. You can be sure he\u2019ll be ready to put his country on his back once again to reclaim the World Cup. <\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Champions<\/p>\n
SENEGAL<\/p>\n
The winners of the African Cup of Nations final Senegal have been the continent\u2019s strongest team for most of the last 20 years, but since 2002, they\u2019ve flattered to deceive at World Cups. They\u2019ll be looking to set that right this time around. This is a team with star quality all over the pitch, filled with flair and steel, a perfect combination for a tournament so often defined by world class moments.<\/p>\n
Key player: Iliman Ndiaye<\/p>\n
As the country\u2019s greatest player Sadio Mane\u2019s career edges towards its end, another attacking gem has emerged for Senegal. Ndiaye has been one of the brightest sparks in the Premier League with Everton this year, showcasing an exquisite touch and an eye for goal. If Senegal are to deliver at the World Cup, he will be key to their ambitions. <\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Round of 16<\/p>\n
HARRISON, NEW JERSEY – JUNE 07: Erling Haaland of Norway is primed for a big World Cup.Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n
NORWAY<\/p>\n
For a team who haven\u2019t participated at a World Cup since 1998, Norway come into this tournament with a big reputation. From humbling Italy in the qualifying stages, to having world stars like Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard, they are sure to be a force to be reckoned with. And given they have no real tournament experience, it\u2019ll be interesting to see how they go in a tricky group.<\/p>\n
Key player: Erling Haaland<\/p>\n
It couldn\u2019t really be anyone else, could it? Haaland has been the best striker in England virtually since his arrival in the Premier League, and he\u2019ll have his eyes on the golden boot at the World Cup. His pace, power and ice cool finishing make him a brilliant \u2018moments\u2019 player. And in a tournament where so much can be decided by a second of genius, Norway have one of the very best at providing them.<\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Round of 32<\/p>\n
GROUP J<\/p>\n
ARGENTINA<\/p>\n
The reigning champions come into this tournament among the heavy favourites, but history is against them. No team has successfully defended the World Cup since the great Brazilian side of Pele in 1958 and 1962. However, this Argentina side is a tough, winning machine that will only be beaten by the very best. And with the greatest footballer of all time still leading them, nothing is impossible.<\/p>\n
Key Player: Lionel Messi<\/p>\n
Similar to Spain, the temptation is to go against the grain and pick out a new star like Enzo Fernandez or Julian Alvarez. However, the man who as always will be the key to Argentina\u2019s ambitions will be Messi. Now playing in Miami, there is no greater player at breaking open a game than the diminutive genius. Lionel Scaloni\u2019s system will be set up to save Messi\u2019s legs and let him perform the same jaw-dropping feats he\u2019s been gracing football fans with for the best part of 20 years.<\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Runners-up<\/p>\n
ALGERIA<\/p>\n
Algeria is a team coming into a new era. Gone are the days where they were the strongest footballing nation in Africa, but they still have a proud footballing heritage and will be keen to leave their mark on the tournament. And in a group which on paper is relatively weak, they should be confident in advancing to the knockout stages. <\/p>\n
Key Player: Riyad Mahrez<\/p>\n
While Algeria does have strong talent such as Ibrahim Maza and Far\u00e8s Cha\u00efbi coming through, it is to Mahrez where they will once again look for inspiration. The mercurial right winger may not be the player he once was, but he is an inspirational leader for Algeria. A winner of the world\u2019s biggest club trophies, his experience and winning mentality could be the difference between an early plane home and advancing to the knockouts. <\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Group Stage<\/p>\n
Austria are ready.Source: AFP<\/p>\n
AUSTRIA<\/p>\n
One of the oldest outfits, this is a team which may be a horrible opponent for their World Cup opponents. Blessed with experienced campaigners like David Alaba, Konrad Laimer as well as up and comers like Paul Wanner and Carney Chukwuemka, under the tutelage of Ralf Ragnick, they have a very solid squad. They\u2019ll be confident of advancing through group J with relative ease.<\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Marcel Sabitzer<\/p>\n
While David Alaba may be Austria\u2019s biggest name, the versatile defender has been injured for much of the season, meaning Sabitzer will be even more important in his role. Sabitzer can play as an 8, 10 or a winger, has exquisite technique and an eye for goal to match many midfielders. In a squad filled with technical excellence, Sabitzer is a standout, and his experience and eye for goal will be invaluable to any Austrian hopes of progression to the latter stages.<\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Round of 32<\/p>\n
JORDAN<\/p>\n
Jordan is a team of overachievers, and they will be tricky customers for their group J opponents. Finishing second in their qualifying group ahead of Iraq meant they went straight through to the World Cup, and they\u2019ve bloodied the noses of big teams in recent times. They\u2019ve managed wins over Iraq and Egypt in recent times and held Nigeria to a creditable draw in April. <\/p>\n
Key Player: Mousa Tamari<\/p>\n
Tamari will represent a major threat to any left back at this World Cup. Playing his football with French giants Stade Rennais, he\u2019s provided seven goals and 11 assists at club level and has a very respectable 21 goals in 70 caps for his country. A left footed right winger, he\u2019ll be looking to cut inside and drive inside to create chances and take shots from the edge of the box.<\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Group stage<\/p>\n
GROUP K<\/p>\n
Democratic Republic of Congo<\/p>\n
The Democratic Republic of Congo are a side who have often produced excellent talent, but it has been far too long between drinks, qualifying for the World Cup for the first time since 1974. However, this is a team littered with players at some of Europe\u2019s biggest clubs and they will be very hopeful of advancing to the knockout stages of the tournament. <\/p>\n
Key Player: Noah Sadiki<\/p>\n
The Sunderland midfielder has been a revelation in the Premier League, helping drive the Black Cats\u2019 incredible European finish on their return to the English top flight. An industrious midfielder, his partnership with Granit Xhaka has been the bedrock of Sunderland\u2019s great form. Now he\u2019ll be determined to add a solid showing at the World Cup to his rapidly growing reputation. <\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Round of 32<\/p>\n
LISBON, PORTUGAL – JUNE 06: Bruno Fernandes #8 of Portugal celebrates after scoring his sides second goal during the international friendly match between Portugal and Chile at Estadio Nacional do Jamor on June 06, 2026 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues\/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n
PORTUGAL<\/p>\n
One of the finest teams in Europe comes to the World Cup looking for nothing less than being crowned as the world\u2019s best team. While their talisman Cristiano Ronaldo may not be the player he was, they are still a superb team with a deep and talented squad. Possessing arguably the finest midfield in the tournament, along with some supreme defensive talent, do not bet against them going far in this tournament. <\/p>\n
Key Player: Bruno Fernandes<\/p>\n
For the first time since 2006, a player not named Cristiano Ronaldo is Portugal\u2019s best player. Fernandes has been nothing short of brilliant for Manchester United this season, winning both the PFA and Football Writer\u2019s player of the season awards in the English Premier League. Blessed with a wand of a right foot, and a hardened determination to match Ronaldo\u2019s, he\u2019ll be key to Portugal making a sustained run at the tournament. <\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Quarter-final<\/p>\n
UZBEKISTAN<\/p>\n
First time qualifiers, Uzbekistan will come into this tournament with no pressure to do anything but spring a surprise. Their largely unheralded squad is led by former World Cup winner, Fabio Cannavaro, but the Italian coach will know his side are unlikely to represent a major threat. However, they\u2019re not to be underestimated, and have caused trouble for Uruguay and Egypt in recent matches, so don\u2019t be shocked if they cause a shock or two.<\/p>\n
Key Player: Eldor Shomurodov<\/p>\n
Despite Abdukodir Khusanov being the most well-known of the Uzbek squad, the captain Shomurodov\u2019s experience and goalscoring touch will be essential. With 21 goals for Turkish side Istanbul Basaksehir this season, he is in excellent form, and he will be expected to be his side\u2019s main source of goals. With 44 goals in 90 international appearances, he has all the experience and nous to get on the end of the chances Uzbekistan manage to create.<\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Group Stage<\/p>\n
COLOMBIA<\/p>\n
Colombia come into this tournament with a sterling reputation. They have come so close to glory at the Copa America, and while they\u2019re unlikely to win the tournament, they will represent a threat to any team they face. However, this could represent the last chance for several legendary players, such as James Rodriguez and Luis Diaz to showcase their best football at a World Cup. <\/p>\n
Key player: Luis Diaz<\/p>\n
While James Rodriguez is the team\u2019s captain, Diaz is now its principle attacking threat. His move from Liverpool to Bayern Munich has been an astounding success, with the left winger making up one third of Europe\u2019s most potent front three at club level. His pace, trickery and eye for the spectacular will be vital for Colombia as they look to advance to the latter stages of the tournament. <\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Round of 16<\/p>\n
TAMPA, FL – JUNE 06: England forward Harry Kane (9) celebrates after his goal in the first half during the friendly soccer match between England and New Zealand on Saturday, June 6, 2026 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, FL (Photo by Peter Joneleit\/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)Source: Supplied<\/p>\n
GROUP L<\/p>\n
ENGLAND<\/p>\n
Could it be that a German coach is what\u2019s needed to turn England\u2019s nearly men into winners? This is arguably the most balanced England squad that has entered a World Cup this century. No glaring weaknesses stand out in this squad unlike previous years. They\u2019re undefeated in all competitive games under Thomas Tuchel and have reached at least the quarter finals of every tournament since 2018. With a blend of quality, youth and experience, this could be the side to break a sixty-year hoodoo and take home the World Cup at last.<\/p>\n
Key Player: Harry Kane<\/p>\n
As with every tournament almost since his debut, England\u2019s captain and talisman Kane will be the difference maker for the Three Lions. The striker is in career best form with Bayern Munich and is the core of the most productive attacking line in world football. With 35 goal contributions in 24 Bundesliga games, if he can bring anything like that sort of form into the World Cup, he could bring the trophy home.<\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Semi-finals (3rd place)<\/p>\n
CROATIA<\/p>\n
Eight years on from being beaten finalists in Moscow, Croatia are still a dangerous prospect. Boasting stars like Josko Gvardiol, the evergreen Luka Modric and emerging talents like Luka Vuskovic, the Balkan side are set to maintain their ability to punch above their weight. Expect them to give out at least one bloody nose in the tournament and don\u2019t be surprised to see them in the latter stages.<\/p>\n
Key player: Luka Modric<\/p>\n
He may be 40 years old, but Modric can still count himself among the best midfielders in the world. The 2018 Ballon D\u2019or winner is a simply majestic footballer, with a touch soft as silk and an eye for a pass few footballers in history can match, he\u2019ll be key if Croatia are to advance in the tournament. His form for Milan after leaving Madrid has been stellar and expect him to leave audiences at his last World Cup swooning.<\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Round of 32 <\/p>\n
GHANA<\/p>\n
Ghana\u2019s case has been an unusual one in recent times. Despite being one of the great powers of African football, they failed to qualify for the African Cup of Nations. They\u2019re lacking the previous star power of yesteryear, but they should still not be underestimated at the World Cup. Despite England and Croatia being favourites to finish in the top two in group L, Ghana could very well throw a spanner in the works. <\/p>\n
Key Player: Antoine Semenyo<\/p>\n
Semenyo has been one of this season\u2019s great revelations. Having played an outstanding start to the season at Bournemouth, the winger is now helping Manchester City\u2019s charge toward a domestic treble. With 21 goals and six assists this season, he can rip open even the most high-profile defences.<\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Round of 32<\/p>\n
PANAMA<\/p>\n
Panama are a footballing minnow, but they have managed to qualify for their second World Cup of the last three, a great achievement for a team with such little pedigree. They\u2019ve also produced excellent results against South Africa in recent friendlies, winning 2-1 and drawing 1-1 in two March friendlies. While they\u2019re not expected to go far, those expecting regulation thrashings could be in for a surprise.<\/p>\n
Key Player: Ismael Diaz<\/p>\n
The Leon winger will be key to Panama getting any joy in the group stage. The golden boot winner in the 2025 Gold Cup, the 28-year-old attacker is Panama\u2019s main attacking weapon and his pace in behind the opposition line will be essential. If Panama are to harbour any remote hopes of getting out of the group, Diaz will need to be on top form. <\/p>\n
Predicted finish: Group Stage<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"The World Cup is here. And it\u2019s a big one, literally. A total of 48 teams have 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<\/p>\n