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On 3 June 2026, the excitement builds as 48 nations prepare to compete in the group stage of the FIFA World Cup, all vying for a place in the knockout rounds.

The world’s biggest football tournament will unfold this summer across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Every participating nation will be eager to shine on the grandest stage of all.

Here’s a preview of the sides expected to top each of the 12 World Cup groups:

In Group A, co-hosts Mexico open the 2026 World Cup against South Africa, while South Korea and Czechia complete the group lineup. Each of the four teams is expected to be competitive, but Mexico’s home advantage makes them favourites to secure the top spot. South Korea and Czechia have strong squads, but the hosts appear best placed to lead the group.

Group B features another co-host, Canada, alongside Switzerland, Qatar, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Qatar are not expected to pose much of a challenge, and Bosnia may also struggle. While Canada benefit from home conditions, Switzerland’s balance of experience and talent gives them the edge to finish first.

Group C brings together Brazil, Morocco, Scotland, and Haiti. Under Carlo Ancelotti’s leadership, Brazil are clear favourites and anything less than first place would be surprising. Morocco may challenge them but are still likely to finish behind the South American giants.

Group D sees the final co-host, the USA, drawn with Paraguay, Australia, and Turkey. With home support, a well-rounded squad, and Mauricio Pochettino at the helm, the USA are tipped to top the group, though Turkey’s young and dynamic side could make it a tight contest.

Germany headline Group E, joined by Ecuador, Ivory Coast, and Curacao. Most observers expect Germany to dominate, given their depth and quality. Ecuador and Ivory Coast have capable players but lack the overall firepower to match the European side.

Group F is one of the most challenging, featuring the Netherlands, Japan, Tunisia, and Sweden. Tunisia are tough opponents but could be overshadowed by stronger teams. Sweden’s form in qualifying was poor, leaving the Netherlands and Japan as the main contenders. Japan’s recent tournament performances have been impressive, but the Netherlands’ greater experience and squad depth make them slight favourites.

In Group G, Belgium are drawn with Egypt, Iran, and New Zealand. Despite their golden generation nearing its end, Belgium remain strong favourites. Egypt’s key players could spring a surprise if they perform to their full potential.

Group H sees Spain face Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, and Cape Verde. Spain, one of the tournament favourites, are expected to dominate the group with Uruguay posing the only real test.

Group I brings France, Norway, Senegal, and Iraq together in another tight group. Norway boast world-class individuals, and Senegal are solid across the pitch, but France’s depth and quality should see them comfortably secure first place.

Reigning world champions Argentina headline Group J, joined by Austria, Algeria, and Jordan. Argentina are widely tipped to finish on top as they begin their campaign to defend their title.

In Group K, Portugal face Colombia, DR Congo, and Uzbekistan. Portugal’s superior depth and top-tier players make them strong favourites to lead the group.

Finally, England lead Group L, facing Croatia, Ghana, and Panama. While Croatia and Ghana could present challenges, Thomas Tuchel’s England are expected to finish first in his debut World Cup as manager.