FIFA World Cup 2026
Tournament Preview
Spain combine the best midfield in the tournament with generational wide talent in Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams. Luis de la Fuente's Euro 2024-winning system is built for control…
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the first expanded 48-team tournament, hosted across the USA, Canada and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July. With 12 groups of four and 32 teams advancing to a new Round of 32, the format rewards depth and consistency. Host nations USA, Mexico and Canada bring unprecedented home support, while Spain, France, England and Argentina headline the outright market.
Tournament format
- 48 teams in 12 groups
- Hosts: USA, Canada, Mexico
- 11 Jun 2026-19 Jul 2026
- 32 teams advance to a new Round of 32 knockout stage
Host nations
USA
Group DPrediction: Round of 32
Pochettino's high press and home crowds give the US a genuine edge. Türkiye and Australia provide stern tests.
Mexico
Group APrediction: Round of 32
Opening match at Estadio Azteca. Aguirre's experience and fan support make Mexico tough to beat at home.
Canada
Group BPrediction: Round of 32
Marsch's pressing style suits Davies and David. Switzerland is the key group test - David arrives from a first season at Juventus.
Dark horses
Norway
Haaland and Ødegaard in a favourable group could spring a surprise run if the defence holds.
Morocco
2022 semi-finalists with Regragui's organised system and Hakimi's dynamism.
Japan
Technical cohesion and Mitoma's creativity make them dangerous in knockout football.
Austria
Rangnick's high press could upset established sides in the Round of 32.
Colombia
Luis Díaz and James Rodríguez provide flair that knockout football rewards.
Ones to watch
Generational winger already starring for Barcelona and Spain.
Real Madrid playmaker with an eye for the spectacular.
Liverpool playmaker after a full 25/26 Premier League season under Arne Slot.
Brighton dribbler who thrives in big moments.
Tottenham winger with pace and trickery after his summer 2025 move from West Ham.
Başakşehir striker who fired Uzbekistan to their first World Cup; joint Süper Lig top scorer in 25/26.
Juventus striker leading Canada's home-nation charge after leaving Lille.
Athletic Bilbao pace merchant who complements Yamal on the opposite flank.