Spain: The Bookmakers' Favourites
Spain enters the 2026 World Cup as a leading contender, following their impressive Euro 2024 triumph where they defeated England in the final. The team boasts a rising star in Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, who is widely regarded as one of the world’s elite talents. Despite not yet securing qualification, Spain leads Group E with maximum points, having avoided competitive losses since a 2023 clash with Scotland, aside from a Nations League final penalty shootout defeat to Portugal.
Spain's Euro 2024 triumph has bolstered their World Cup credentials.
England: A New Era Under Tuchel
England’s recent appointment of Thomas Tuchel signals a determined push for success, with the FA sealing a deal tailored for the tournament. The Three Lions aim to break their long World Cup drought, having qualified with a record of nine wins in their last 10 games. Tuchel faces the challenge of leading them to victory, a feat only achieved once by Alf Ramsey. Star striker Harry Kane, who netted 20 goals in 11 matches for Bayern Munich and England this season, is a key asset for the team.
Harry Kane's form could be pivotal for England's World Cup ambitions.
Argentina: Defending Champions with Questions
As reigning World Cup champions, Argentina’s focus is on maintaining their momentum. They secured top spot in the South American qualifying group, finishing nine points ahead of Ecuador. However, Lionel Messi’s participation remains uncertain, as manager Lionel Scaloni opted to rest him in a recent friendly to test younger players like Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez. Their ability to replicate their 2022 success will depend on balancing experience and emerging talent.
Argentina’s 2022 triumph sets high expectations for 2026.
France: Mbappe’s Challenge
France, still coached by Didier Deschamps until the tournament’s end, seeks a third consecutive World Cup final. Kylian Mbappe’s prolific season with Real Madrid and the national team, including 17 goals in 13 matches, fuels optimism. However, their qualification campaign has been tense, with a 2-2 draw against Iceland and a narrow lead over Ukraine in Group D.
France’s focus on Mbappe could determine their World Cup fate.
Brazil: Ancelotti’s Ambitions
Brazil’s return to form under Carlo Ancelotti, their first foreign coach since 1965, has sparked hope. Despite a fifth-place finish in South American qualifiers with six losses in 18 games, the team’s recent performances, including a Nations League title win over Portugal, highlight their resilience. Ancelotti’s club success adds pressure to replicate it on the global stage.
Carlo Ancelotti’s appointment marks a new chapter for Brazil.
Portugal: Ronaldo’s Legacy
Portugal’s qualification campaign remains uncertain, but Cristiano Ronaldo’s continued brilliance has kept them in contention. The 41-year-old has scored 13 goals in 13 matches since Euro 2024, despite debates about his role. Their Nations League victory over Spain in a penalty shootout underscores their potential, though consistency will be key to securing a spot in 2026.
Portugal’s Nations League win shows their competitiveness.
Germany: Redemption on the Horizon
Germany’s struggles in recent tournaments have made their World Cup qualification a tight race. Sitting just above Slovakia in Group A on goal difference, they’ve faced challenges, including a rare defeat to Slovakia. To contend in 2026, the team must address their post-2014 World Cup underperformance and improve consistency in major competitions.
Germany’s narrow qualifiers highlight their need for improvement.
Netherlands: A Resurgence in the Making
The Netherlands have shown strong form in qualifiers, scoring 22 goals while conceding just three in six matches. Memphis Depay’s record-breaking contributions—54 goals and 35 assists—anchor their attack. Their recent performance, including a strong showing at Euro 2024, suggests they could be a dark horse in 2026.
Memphis Depay’s stats underscore the Netherlands’ attacking prowess.
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