World Cup Title Favorites, Sleepers, Debut Teams? All 48 Teams By Tiers

Ready for the biggest edition of soccer’s marquee event? With 48 teams spread across three countries, this summer’s 2026 FIFA World Cup is going to be epic. 

[2026 FIFA WORLD CUP: Full Game-by-Game Schedule]

The field is set, and all 12 four-team groups are locked in. But which teams will be the serious tournament contenders? Who’ll punch above their weight? The first-timers? And what about co-hosts USA, Mexico and Canada? 

We’re diving into the World Cup field by placing all the teams into distinct tiers and breaking down why you should keep an eye on them.

JUMP TO: Co-Hosts | Sleeper Picks | Capable of Deep Run | Get Into Knockouts | Could Make It Interesting | Early Exit? | Debut Teams! 

ARGENTINA

World Cup Odds: +850
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 16: Argentina vs. Algeria — Kansas City Stadium (9 p.m. ET)
• June 22: Argentina vs. Austria — Dallas Stadium at Arlington, Texas (1 p. m. ET)
• June 27: Argentina vs. Jordan — Dallas Stadium at Arlington, Texas (10 p.m. ET)

The defending World Cup champs want to become the first country to win consecutive titles since Brazil did it in 1958 and 1962. Can La Albiceleste do it? Well, they have the same manager in Lionel Scaloni, and you can never count out a team that’s led by legendary forward Lionel Messi (who will turn 39 during the tournament). This is a deep, experienced group brimming with talent that knows how to win major tournaments (and also won back-to-back Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024).

BRAZIL

World Cup Odds: +850
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 13: Brazil vs. Morocco — New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (6 p.m. ET)
• June 19: Brazil vs. Haiti — Philadelphia Stadium (9 p.m. ET)
• June 24: Scotland vs. Brazil — Miami Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida (6 p.m. ET)

The last two times Brazil went to a World Cup held in North America, it left with the trophy in hand. Yet the most successful country in World Cup history has now gone almost a quarter-century without adding a sixth star to its iconic yellow jerseys; the Seleção last sat at the summit of the planet’s most popular sport way back in 2022. This current 24-year drought matches the longest Brazil has ever gone without hoisting a World Cup. 

In other words, it’s due. Brazil always has enough talent to win it all. Now it also has legendary Italian manager Carlo Ancelotti at the helm; the former Real Madrid boss is expected to provide a structure for 25-year-old forward Vinícius Jr. & Co. that helps their gifts shine bright on the biggest stage. If that happens, Brazil will be a tough out for any opponent this summer. 
 

ENGLAND

World Cup Odds: +600
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 17: England vs. Croatia – Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas (4 p.m. ET)
• June 23: England vs. Ghana – Boston Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts (4 p.m. ET)
• June 27: Panama vs. England — New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (5 p.m. ET)

England is still looking for its first World Cup title since 1966. It seems to have the right kind of talent, depth and experience to make a run this summer. And now the Three Lions also have a Champions League-winning manager in Thomas Tuchel to guide them. 

The stars will be out with players like captain striker Harry Kane, the attacking Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka and his versatility, and the well-rounded Cole Palmer on the pitch, all of whom are tired of always coming up short in major tournaments. England was drawn into a tricky Group L with Croatia, Ghana and Panama, so we’ll get an early look at what this squad is made of.

FRANCE

World Cup Odds: +600
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 16: France vs. Senegal — New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (3 p.m. ET)
• June 22: France vs. Iraq — Philadelphia Stadium (5 p.m. ET)
• June 26: Norway vs. France — Boston Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts (3 p.m. ET)

Les Bleus won the World Cup in 2018 and lost the 2022 final – on penalties – to Lionel Messi and Argentina. What can France do for an encore this summer? With Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé and fellow star forward Kylian Mbappé (who was a breakout star in the 2018 title run) leading manager Didier Deschamps’ attack, no wonder France is among the bookies’ favorites to win the tournament outright this summer, alongside European rivals England and Spain. 

PORTUGAL

World Cup Odds: +1100
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 17: Portugal vs. DR Congo — Houston Stadium (1 p.m. ET)
• June 23: Portugal vs. Uzbekistan — Houston Stadium (1 p.m. ET)
• June 27: Colombia vs. Portugal — Miami Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida (7:30 p.m. ET)

Portugal has never won a World Cup, much less reached a World Cup final. Could this be the year? There was so much drama around the team four years ago when former manager Fernando Santos benched superstar Cristiano Ronaldo in Qatar. Now the team is coached by Spaniard Roberto Martinez, who led it to the 2024 Euro quarterfinal and 2025 Nations League championship, where his side defeated Spain in a penalty shootout. His relationship with the 41-year-old Ronaldo could dictate how things go for Portugal this summer.

SPAIN 

World Cup Odds: +450
World Cup Group Stage Opponents: 

• June 15: Spain vs. Cape Verde — Atlanta Stadium (12 p.m. ET)
• June 21: Spain vs. Saudi Arabia — Atlanta Stadium (12 p.m. ET)
• June 26: Spain vs. Uruguay — Guadalajara Stadium in Zapopan, Mexico (8 p.m. ET)

The reigning European champions are striving to win their first World Cup since 2010 and just second overall in the nation’s history. Four years ago, La Roja were knocked out in the round of 16 by Cinderella squad Morocco. This time they’ll be a tougher out with all the young attacking talent that litters this roster from wingers Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams to Pedri (midfielder) and more. This is a group that will keep getting better as these players get older, but they want to win now.

CANADA

World Cup Odds: +20000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 12: Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina (Bosnia and Herzegovina or Italy) — Toronto Stadium (3 p.m. ET)
• June 18: Canada vs. Qatar — BC Place in Vancouver, Canada (6 p.m. ET)
• June 24: Canada vs. Switzerland — BC Place in Vancouver, Canada (3 p.m. ET)

Four years ago, the Reds snapped a three decade-plus World Cup drought by topping Concacaf’s qualifying tournament and returning to the Greatest Show on Earth for the first time since 1986. And Canada played well in Qatar despite losing all three of its games, including defeats against eventual 2022 semifinalists Croatia and Morocco. Now, it’s hosting World Cup games on the men’s side for the first time, and the pressure to perform is different. Led by American coach Jesse Marsch, Canada will be looking not just to win a World Cup game for the first time but to advance to the knockout stage. And it has the players to do it, too, with captain Alphonso Davies and Juventus striker Jonathan David leading the way.

MEXICO

World Cup Odds: +7000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents: 

• June 11: Mexico vs. South Africa – Mexico City Stadium (3 p.m. ET)
• June 18: Mexico vs. South Korea – Guadalajara Stadium in Zapopan, Mexico (9 p.m. ET)
• June 24: Mexico vs. Czechia — Mexico City Stadium  (9 p.m. ET)

Four years ago, Mexico failed to make it out of its group. To have the same result this time around on home soil would be disastrous, especially given their favorable draw. The reigning Concacaf Nations League and Gold Cup champions have had a recent rash of injuries that has allowed even keeper Guillermo Ochoa to return to the squad for recent friendlies – but could he make an unprecedented sixth World Cup? Plenty of buzz around young midfielders Gilerto Mora and Obed Vargas, but this squad will rely on veterans such as star striker Raul Jimenez and captain Edson Alvarez (who is also battling an injury). 

USA

World Cup Odds: +6500
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 12: United States vs. Paraguay — Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California (9 p.m. ET)
• June 19: United States vs. Australia — Seattle Stadium (3 p.m. ET)
• June 25: United States vs. Türkiye — Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California (10 p.m. ET)

Playing at a World Cup on home soil for the first time since 1994, the United States is hoping for a deep run this summer under highly regarded Argentine coach Mauricio Pochettino. The Americans’ best World Cup showing since the inaugural 1930 event – where the U.S. finished fourth – was a quarterfinal trip in 2002. With the 2026 edition expanded to 48 nations, just equaling that feat would require winning an extra knockout stage match. That’s no easy feat. 

Still, this U.S. squad is widely considered the most talented ever, with legitimate European club stars such as AC Milan’s Christian Pulisic and Juventus’ Weston McKennie. The core that gained invaluable experience at Qatar 2022 is just now hitting its prime. But losses in March to Belgium and Portugal have tempered expectations, and Pulisic has been caught in a scoring drought for both club and country. His last goal for AC Milan came on Dec. 28, 2025, while his last goal for the Stars and Stripes was in November 2024.  

COLOMBIA

World Cup Odds: +4000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents: 

• June 17: Colombia vs. Uzbekistan — Mexico City Stadium (10 p.m. ET)
• June 23: Colombia vs. DR Congo — Guadalajara Stadium in Zapopan, Mexico (10 p.m. ET)
• June 27: Colombia vs. Portugal — Miami Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida (7:30 p.m. ET)

So what if Los Cafeteros didn’t even go to the last World Cup in Qatar? Four years later, Colombia could be one of the biggest sleepers to make some serious noise this summer. Behind Bayern Munich playmaker Luis Diaz, the Colombians finished South America’s World Cup qualifying tournament in third place, behind only Ecuador and defending world champions Argentina and ahead of five-time winner Brazil. 

Los Cafeteros should get solid support for their first two group games, which take place in Mexico. Meantime, the first round finale in Miami, where they’ll meet Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal, could feel like a home game given the huge ex-pat community in South Florida and Colombian fans’ willingness to travel in droves. 

ECUADOR

World Cup Odds: +8000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 14: Ecuador vs. Ivory Coast — Philadelphia Stadium (7 p.m. ET)
• June 20: Ecuador vs. Curaçao — Kansas City Stadium (8 p.m. ET)
• June 25: Ecuador vs. Germany — New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (4 p.m. ET)

Despite beating host Qatar and tying the two-time runner-up Netherlands in its first two games in 2022, Ecuador failed to advance when it dropped its decisive group phase contest to Senegal. La Tri could be poised for a deep run this summer, though, having finished second in South America’s qualifying tournament ahead of Brazil and behind only defending World Cup champs Argentina. Moises Caicedo, who plays at Chelsea, is one of the world’s best defensive midfielders. The game against Germany in the group finale is likely for who’ll finish on top. 

MOROCCO

World Cup Odds: +6000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 13: Morocco vs. Brazil — New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (6 p.m. ET)
• June 19: Morocco vs. Scotland — Boston Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts (6 p.m. ET)
• June 24: Morocco vs. Haiti — Atlanta Stadium (6 p.m. ET)

The Cinderella team of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Morocco was nearly everyone’s favorite story from four years ago, when it became the first African and Arab nation to reach a World Cup semifinal before losing to France. The Atlas Lions lost to Senegal in a chaotic Africa Cup of Nations final in January (only to be subsequently rewarded the title) and will be motivated to prove themselves this summer that the semifinals run in 2022 was no fluke.

They have a new manager after Walid Regragui abruptly left the team but were able to promote Mohamed Ouahbi, who led Morocco’s U-20 team to a Youth World Cup title in 2025, as the successor. Morocco was drawn into Group C alongside Brazil, Haiti and Scotland, which will make for some early intrigue. PSG’s superstar right-back Achraf Hakimi should once again shine in the summer. 

NORWAY

World Cup Odds: +2800
World Cup Stage Opponents: 

• June 16: Norway vs. Iraq — Boston Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts (6 p.m. ET)
• June 22: Norway vs. Senegal — New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (8 p.m. ET)
• June 26: Norway vs. France — Boston Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts (3 p.m. ET)

Norway’s World Cup return was a long time coming. It was also inevitable. Led by Premier League standouts Erling Haaland of Manchester City and captain Martin Ødegaard of Arsenal, it’s headed back to the planet’s biggest sporting event for the first time since 1998. Haaland is only 25, and already has 55 goals in 48 games for his country. No player in international soccer history surpassed the half-century mark in fewer matches it took the 6-foot-5 striker. In what could be the toughest group at the tournament, Norway has the talent to make some noise.

BELGIUM

World Cup Odds: +3500
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 15: Belgium vs. Egypt — Seattle Stadium (3 p.m. ET)
• June 21: Belgium vs. Iran — Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California (3 p.m. ET)
• June 26: Belgium vs. New Zealand — BC Place, Vancouver, Canada (11 p.m. ET)

The Red Devils’ golden generation hasn’t quite lived up to the hype, having failed to advance from group play in 2022 following deep runs in both 2014 and 2018, when they finished third after narrowly losing their semifinal to eventual champ France. Now in their 30s, midfielder Kevin De Bruyne and striker Romelu Lukaku have one more chance on the biggest stage this summer, with a capable supporting cast led by electric Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku. 

CROATIA

World Cup Odds: +9000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 17: Croatia vs. England — Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas (4 p.m. ET)
• June 23: Croatia vs. Panama — Toronto Stadium (7 p.m. ET)
• June 27: Croatia vs. Ghana — Philadelphia Stadium (5 p.m. ET)

It’s quite magical what Croatia, with a population fewer than four million people, has been able to do in the World Cup. In recent history, this nation was the runner-up at the 2018 World Cup and finished in third place at the 2022 World Cup. You can never count this side out of a major tournament, especially given the squad’s experience level and the fact that it’s led by superstar Luka Modrić. Plus, it has arguably the most magnificent kits in all of football.

GERMANY

World Cup Odds: +1400
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 14: Germany vs. Curaçao — Houston Stadium (1 p.m. ET)
• June 20: Germany vs. Ivory Coast — Toronto Stadium (4 p.m. ET)
• June 25: Germany vs. Ecuador — New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (4 p.m. ET)

The four-time World Cup champions are always capable of making a deep run, if not winning it all. But Die Mannschaft has plenty to prove this summer under coach Julian Nagelsmann; since hoisting the trophy in Brazil in 2014, Germany has not advanced out of group play. Florian Wirtz (midfielder) helped Bayer Leverkusen go undefeated en route to winning the German title two seasons ago before being named Bundesliga Player of the Year in 2025 and then making a big move to Liverpool. In March, the 22-year-old Wirtz scored his 10th goal in just 39 games for his country.   

NETHERLANDS

World Cup Odds: +2000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 14: Netherlands vs. Japan — Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas (4 p.m. ET)
• June 20: Netherlands vs. Sweden — Houston, Texas (1 p.m. ET)
• June 25: Netherlands vs. Tunisia — Kansas City Stadium (7 p.m. ET)

Probably the best soccer-loving nation never to have won a World Cup and the fans are hungry for a trophy. Just look at recent major tournaments like the men’s and women’s Euros and how the fans litter the streets in bright orange. The Dutch have plenty of individual talent to make some noise, from former Lyon star Memphis Depay (striker) to Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong to Liverpool duo Cody Gakpo (winger) and defender Virgil van Dijk. 

Four years ago, the Oranje took eventual champion Argentina to a thrilling penalty shootout in the 2022 World Cup quarterfinal. The game itself was dramatic, with 18 yellow cards and one yellow. How far can this group go in 2026? Manager Ronald Koeman has a physical squad, fast wingers and a ton of players with big-game experience. The Dutch will need to get off on the right foot as its first game is against a capable Japan squad. 

TÜRKIYE

World Cup Odds: +6500
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 13: Australia vs. Türkiye — BC Place in Vancouver, Canada (12 p.m. ET)
• June 19: Türkiye vs. Paraguay — Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California (12 p.m. ET)
• June 25: Türkiye vs. United States — Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California (10 p.m. ET)

The last time the Turks qualified for a World Cup, they went all the way to the semifinals in Korea/Japan in 2002 before losing to eventual champ Brazil by a single goal. With players littered across Europe’s top leagues (including Juventus’ attacking midfielder Kenan Yıldız and Real Madrid’s Arda Güler), they’re more than capable of making another deep run this summer and are now probably the favorites to win a group that includes Australia, Paraguay and the tournament co-hosts United States. 

URUGUAY

World Cup Odds: +6500
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 15: Uruguay vs. Saudi Arabia — Miami Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida (6 p.m. ET)
• June 21: Uruguay vs. Cape Verde — Miami Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida (6 p.m. ET)
• June 26: Uruguay vs. Spain — Guadalajara Stadium in Zapopan, Mexico (8 p.m. ET)

Who won the first World Cup in 1930? It’s a solid trivia question. And the answer, which often stumps people, is Uruguay. And not only did it win that inaugural tournament, but it hosted as well. This is a country with a rich footballing tradition, though it hasn’t been back to the top since winning a second time in 1950. It didn’t make it out of the group in 2022 – facing Portugal, South Korea and Ghana – and is anxious to make a push this summer. It will be tough, though, as it will face tournament favorite Spain and Saudi Arabia in the group. Luckily, it has players like Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo and Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde. 

AUSTRIA

World Cup Odds: +10000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 17: Austria vs. Jordan — San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara, California (12 a.m. ET)
• June 22: Austria vs. Argentina — Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas (1 p.m. ET)
• June 27: Austria vs. Algeria — Kansas City Stadium (10 p.m. ET)

This will be Austria’s first World Cup appearance since 1998. It’s a team that likes to attack and has a strong core of veterans on the team, like Real Madrid defender David Alaba and Borussia Dortmund midfielder Marcel Sabitzer. It’s coached by Ralf Rangnick, who has had an extensive coaching career in Germany. Before taking over the Austrian national team, though, he was the interim manager of Manchester United from 2021-22. In the Euros two years ago, Austria shocked the Netherlands in the group stage to advance to the knockout round (where it ultimately lost to Türkiye). Does it have another upset brewing for this summer?

EGYPT

World Cup Odds: +30000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 15: Egypt vs. Belgium — Seattle Stadium (3 p.m. ET)
• June 21: Egypt vs. New Zealand — BC Place in Vancouver, Canada (9 p.m. ET)
• June 26: Egypt vs. Iran — Seattle Stadium (11 p.m. ET)

Africa’s oldest and most successful national team went 28 years between World Cups before returning in 2018, only to miss out again four years later. Now they’re back again, and the goal is clear: Get out of group play for the first time in their long and decorated history. It may be the last time we see Liverpool legend Mohamed Salah on this big of a stage as well. 

SOUTH KOREA

World Cup Odds: +35000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 11: South Korea vs. Czechia — Guadalajara Stadium in Zapopan, Mexico (10 p.m. ET)
• June 18: South Korea vs. Mexico — Guadalajara Stadium in Zapopan, Mexico (9 p.m. ET)
• June 24: South Korea vs. South Africa — Monterrey Stadium in Guadalupe, Mexico (9 p.m. ET)

South Korea has qualified for 11 straight World Cups, not missing one since 1986. Its best finish came in 2002 when, as tournament co-hosts, the Tigers of Asia reached the semifinals but lost to Germany, 1-0. Four years ago, the squad advanced to the round of 16 where it was ousted by Brazil. How far can South Korea go this summer? It’s fair to expect to make it out of Group A, where it’ll play co-host Mexico, South Africa and a European playoff team. Plus, it has a talented squad which features captain winger Son Heung-min, who stars for LAFC, as well as European-based stars like midfielder Lee Kang-in (PSG), defender Kim Min-jae (Bayern Munich) and winger Lee Jae-sung (Mainz 05).

JAPAN

World Cup Odds: +5000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 14: Japan vs. Netherlands — Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas (4 p.m. ET)
• June 21: Japan vs. Tunisia — Monterrey Stadium in Guadalupe, Mexico (12 a.m. ET)
• June 25: Japan vs. Sweden — Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas (7 p.m. ET)

Japan has played in every World Cup since its debut in 1998, but it has never made it past the round of 16. Could this be the year? It was close four years ago, beating Germany and Spain in the Group of Death and taking Croatia to a penalty shootout in the round of 16. This is a team that historically plays quickly, likes to press and is dangerous in transition. The best part about the Samurai Blue, though, is probably their fans, who went viral and were admired around the world at the last World Cup for cleaning up stadiums after matches.

SCOTLAND

World Cup Odds: +20000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 14: Japan vs. Netherlands — Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas (4 p.m. ET)
• June 21: Japan vs. Tunisia — Monterrey Stadium in Guadalupe, Mexico (12 a.m. ET)
• June 25: Japan vs. Sweden — Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas (7 p.m. ET)

Once a regular World Cup qualifier, the Tartan Army will soon be back on the big stage for the first time since 1998. The Scots didn’t even need a playoff to get there. In November, Scott McTominay (striker) & Co. beat former European champs Denmark in Glasgow to win a group that also included Euro 2004 winners Greece. The 6-foot-3 McTominay, a former Manchester United alum, led Napoli to the Italian title last season, earning a Ballon d’Or nomination along the way. It was his spectacular bicycle kick that opened the scoring in Scotland’s World Cup qualifying clincher over Denmark. 

SENEGAL

World Cup Odds: +10000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 16: Senegal vs. France — New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (3 p.m. ET)
• June 22: Senegal vs. Norway — New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (8 p.m. ET)
• June 26: Senegal vs. Iraq — Toronto Stadium (3 p.m. ET)

Participating in their third World Cup in a row this summer, the former quarterfinalists and 2021 Africa Cup of Nations winners were eliminated by England in the round of 16 in Qatar. Known as the Lions of Teranga, Senegal famously upset then-World Cup holders France in its debut appearance in 2002. Can history repeat itself this summer, when it once again faces Les Bleus in its opening match? Sadio Mané (winger) is one of this generation’s best attackers, and the ex-Liverpool and Bayern Munich star could make some magic. 

PARAGUAY

World Cup Odds: +20000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 12: Paraguay vs. United States — Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California (9 p.m. ET)
• June 20: Paraguay vs. Türkiye — San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara, California (12 a.m. ET)
• June 25: Australia vs. Paraguay — San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara, California (10 p.m. ET)

There’s no question that La Albirroja’s golden age was between 1998 and 2010, when they reached four consecutive tournaments, culminating in a quarterfinal appearance in South Africa. Now Paraguay is back at the World Cup for the first time since, having failed to make the last three editions. MIdfielder Miguel Almirón is familiar to fans on three continents, having moved from Cerro Porteño in Asunción to Argentine club Lanús to MLS side Atlanta United to Premier League mainstay Newcastle before a return back to Atlanta. This team is the USA’s opening match, so expect the South Americans to try and spoil the co-hosts’ party. 

SWITZERLAND

World Cup Odds: +10000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 13: Switzerland vs. Qatar — San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara, California (3 p.m. ET)
• June 18: Switzerland vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina — Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California (3 p.m. ET)
• June 24: Switzerland vs. Canada — BC Place in Vancouver, Canada (3 p.m. ET)

Switzerland is as dependable as the watches produced in the country – this team is headed to its sixth consecutive World Cup. It has reached the round of 16 in each of the last three editions. Led by Premier League veterans Manuel Akanji (defender) and captain Granit Xhaka (midfielder), the Swiss will try to make at least the quarterfinals this summer – something they haven’t managed since 1954. 

ALGERIA

World Cup Odds: +35000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 16: Algeria vs. Argentina — Kansas City Stadium (9 p.m. ET)
• June 22: Algeria vs. Jordan —  San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara, California (11 p.m. ET)
• June 27: Algeria vs. Austria — Kansas City Stadium (10 p.m. ET)

This is Algeria’s first trip to the World Cup since 2014, when they historically reached the round of 16. They were able to book their ticket to this summer’s tournament by finishing atop their group in African qualifying. At the World Cup, they were alongside defending World Cup champion Argentina, as well as Austria and Jordan. While Argentina will certainly win the group – Algeria will face La Albiceleste in its first match on June 16 in Kansas City – the second spot could be up for grabs. Former Manchester City and Leicester City winger Riyad Mahrez will be a catalyst for this squad. 

AUSTRALIA

World Cup Odds: +45000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 14: Australia vs. Türkiye — BC Place in Vancouver, Canada (12 a.m. ET)
• June 19: Australia vs. United States — Seattle Stadium (3 p.m. ET)
• June 25: Australia vs. Paraguay — San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara, California (10 p.m. ET)

The Socceroos gave Lionel Messi and eventual champs Argentina a scare in the round of 16 in Qatar before losing, 2-1, and the 2026 event marks their sixth straight World Cup trip. Organized and physical under coach Tony Popovic, they’ll be a tough out for the co-host United States, which they’ll face in Seattle in their second group stage match.

BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

World Cup Odds: +25000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 12: Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina — Toronto Stadium (3 p.m. ET)
• June 19: Switzerland vs. Bosnia and Herzegovinia — Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California (3 p.m. ET)
• June 24: Qatar vs. Bosnia and Herzegovinia — Seattle Stadium (3 p.m. ET)

What’s the biggest story of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s incredible run into the World Cup? Defeating Italy in the World Cup playoff final to ensure the four-time champions would miss a third straight tournament? Seeing talisman striker Edin Džeko, now 41, help his country reach the biggest stage? Or witnessing American-born Esmir Bajraktarević (aka, the “Milwaukee Messi”) coolly take the decisive penalty in the win over Italy? Prepare for this squad to capture neutrals’ hearts and attention – especially in the opening match against co-hosts Canada. 

CZECHIA 

World Cup Odds: +15000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 11: Czechia vs. South Korea — Guadalajara Stadium in Zapopan, Mexico (10 p.m. ET)
• June 20: Czechia vs. South Africa — Atlanta Stadium (12 p.m. ET)
• June 24: Czechia vs. Mexico — Mexico City Stadium — (9 p.m. ET)

It’s a return to the World Cup for the first time since 2006 for Czechia, when the country was known as the Czech Republic. Czechia booked its ticket to the 2026 World Cup after outlasting Denmark, 3-1, on penalty kicks in the UEFA following a 2-2 draw after 120 minutes. The squad will be led by towering Bayer Leverkusen striker Patrik Schick, but it will need plenty more help in a group that includes co-hosts Mexico. 

DR CONGO

World Cup Odds: +70000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 17: DR Congo vs. Portugal — Houston Stadium (1 p.m. ET)
• June 23: DR Congo vs. Colombia — Guadalajara Stadium (10 p.m. ET)
• June 27: DR Congo vs. Uzbekistan — Atlanta Stadium (7:30 p.m. ET)

Simply put, this team wasn’t supposed to make it. With traditional African powers Nigeria and Cameroon standing between the Democratic Republic of Congo and its first World Cup appearance since 1974 (when known as Zaire), next to nobody gave it a chance. But that message didn’t get to the Leopards, who promptly shocked both to reach the intercontinental playoffs and then beat Jamaica to book their spot in the main event. Veteran Premier League right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka (now at West Ham after a stint at Manchester United) headlines a list of players with plenty of European experience. 

GHANA

World Cup Odds: +35000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 17: Ghana vs. Panama — Toronto Stadium (7 p.m. ET)
• June 23: Ghana vs. England — Boston Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts (4 p.m. ET)
• June 27: Ghana vs. Croatia — Philadelphia Stadium (5 p.m. ET)

Ghana has qualified for four of the last five World Cups, with its best finish coming in 2010 when it reached the quarterfinals. The Black Stars booked their spot for 2026 by finishing at the top of their qualifying group with eight wins, one draw and one loss. Unfortunately, they were drawn into a tougher group with favorites England and Croatia, and Panama always good for an upset. Getting out of this group is going to be a challenge, but they can lean on veteran experience from the attacking Mohammed Kudus.  

IVORY COAST

World Cup Odds: +25000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 14: Ivory Coast vs. Ecuador — Philadelphia Stadium (7 p.m. ET)
• June 20: Ivory Coast vs. Germany — Toronto Stadium (4 p.m. ET)
• June 25: Ivory Coast vs. Curaçao — Philadelphia Stadium (4 p.m. ET)

The days of Didier Drogba (the all-time Ivory Coast top scorer who retired in 2018) are long gone, but that won’t deter the new generation of these Elephants. The team debuted on the world stage in 2006 and then qualified for each of the next two tournaments before missing the last two editions. Now, it’s back with realistic ambitions of advancing for the first time in their history, despite occupying a group with Ecuador and four-time winners Germany: In March, it thumped World Cup-bound South Korea 4-0, which should give the team momentum in the summer. 

SWEDEN

World Cup Odds: +8000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 14: Sweden vs. Tunisia — Monterrey Stadium in Guadalupe, Mexico (10 p.m. ET)
• June 20: Sweden vs. Netherlands — Houston, Texas (1 p.m. ET)
• June 25: Sweden vs. Japan — Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas (7 p.m. ET)

How about getting to the World Cup without actually winning a game during the initial qualifying campaign? Sweden finished last in its qualifying group but made the playoff round because of its UEFA Nations League performance. Leading the way is a pair of top strikers in Liverpool’s Alexander Isak and Arsenal’s Viktor Gyokeres, with the latter scoring four goals in March’s playoff games. The Swedes have turned the corner under Graham Potter, the former Chelsea and Brighton manager who previously spent seven years coaching in Sweden.

HAITI

World Cup Odds: +150000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 13: Haiti vs. Scotland — Boston Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts (9 p.m. ET)
• June 19: Haiti vs. Brazil — Philadelphia Stadium (9 p.m. ET)
• June 24: Haiti vs. Morocco — Atlanta Stadium (6 p.m. ET)

One of the great stories of World Cup qualifying, the Haitians will return to the global stage this summer for the second time ever and first since 1974. Les Grenadiers punched their ticket to the competition despite not playing a single match at home because of security worries. Defensively stout, they still won a qualifying group that contained recent World Cup participants Costa Rica and Honduras. But the task will be way bigger this summer with those group-stage teams.

IRAN

World Cup Odds: +30000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 15: Iran vs. New Zealand — Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California (9 p.m. ET)
• June 21: Iran vs. Belgium — Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California (3 p.m. ET)
• June 26: Iran vs. Egypt — Seattle Stadium (11 p.m. ET)

Team Melli won’t be a pushover as this team has participated in five of the last seven World Cups. While it’s never yet made it to the knockout rounds, it beat Gareth Bale-led Wales in Qatar before narrowly losing to the U.S. in both teams’ first round finale. Star striker and captain Mehdi Taremi will be the focal point for the team.

IRAQ

World Cup Odds: +100000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 16: Iraq vs. Norway — Boston Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts (6 p.m. ET)
• June 22: France vs. Iraq — Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (5 p.m. ET)
• June 26: Senegal vs. Iraq —BMO Field in Toronto, Ontario (3 p.m. ET)

The final team to actually book a spot for the World Cup by winning the second intercontinental playoff. It’s the second World Cup appearance for the squad (after its 1986 debut), but with a group that includes three very stout sides, it may be a short tournament for the Lions of Mesopotamia. 

NEW ZEALAND

World Cup Odds: +100000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 15: New Zealand vs. Iran — Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California (9 p.m. ET)
• June 21: New Zealand vs. Egypt — BC Place, Vancouver, Canada (9 p.m. ET)
• June 26: New Zealand vs. Belgium — BC Place, Vancouver, Canada (11 p.m. ET)

The team is back on the big stage for the first time since 2010, when it had the interesting distinction of going undefeated with three ties, including one against then-defending champions Italy. New Zealand clinched its spot more than a year ago by topping New Caledonia, 3-0, in Auckland. But things could get ugly at the main event; it went on an 0-7-1 run before finally beating Chile in March. 

TUNISIA

World Cup Odds: +50000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 14: Tunisia vs. Sweden — Monterrey Stadium in Guadalupe, Mexico (10 p.m. ET)
• June 21: Tunisia vs. Japan — Monterrey Stadium in Guadalupe, Mexico (12 a.m. ET)
• June 25: Tunisia vs. Netherlands — Kansas City Stadium (7 p.m. ET)

This will be Tunisia’s seventh World Cup appearance, and one it hopes will be its best. You see, the Eagles of Carthage have never made it out of the group in all those tournaments. That’s probably going to be a tough assignment this summer in Group F, given they’re joined by the Netherlands and Japan, who are expected to advance. Even so, Tunisia has some fun World Cup history, like the fact that it was the first African nation ever to win a World Cup match in 1978 when it beat Mexico, 3-1.

PANAMA

World Cup Odds: +100000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 17: Ghana vs. Panama — Toronto Stadium (7 p.m. ET)
• June 23: Panama vs. Croatia — Toronto Stadium (7 p.m. ET)
• June 27: Panama vs. England — New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (5 p.m. ET)

This will only be Panama’s second trip to the World Cup. The squad had a strong qualifying campaign, which was aided by the fact that it didn’t have to play the United States, Canada or Mexico, all of whom automatically qualified for the tournament as co-hosts. This will be a tough group, but the Panamanians can stun their opponents when everything is clicking. Just ask the U.S. men’s national team, which lost to Panama at the 2024 Copa América and in the 2025 Concacaf Nations League semifinals.

SAUDI ARABIA

World Cup Odds: +100000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 15: Saudi Arabia vs. Uruguay — Miami Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida (6 p.m. ET)
• June 21: Saudi Arabia vs. Spain — Atlanta Stadium (12 p.m. ET)
• June 26: Saudi Arabia vs. Cape Verde — Houston Stadium (8 p.m. ET)

Saudi Arabia has qualified for the last seven of nine World Cups. Perhaps its most notable tournament was four years ago in Qatar, when the squad shocked eventual champion Argentina in the group stage with a 2-1 victory. The Arabian Falcons then proceeded to lose to both Poland and Mexico and finished at the bottom of their group. They’re led by French manager Herve Renard, who has plenty of international experience, including coaching the squad in 2022 before taking the French women’s national team to the 2023 World Cup. He no doubt will want to help the team go further than it did last time, and maybe that’s possible in a group with Spain, Uruguay and Cape Verde.

SOUTH AFRICA

World Cup Odds: +80000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 11: South Africa vs. Mexico –  Mexico City Stadium (3 p.m. ET)
• June 18: South Africa vs. Czechia — Atlanta Stadium (12 p.m. ET)
• June 24: South Africa vs. South Korea — Monterrey Stadium in Guadalupe, Mexico (9 p.m. ET)

South Africa gets the honor of opening the World Cup when it faces co-host Mexico in the first match of the tournament on June 11 at Mexico City Stadium. Known as Bafana Bafana, South Africa has only played in four World Cups but hasn’t competed in one since hosting in 2010. It’s never made it out of the group stage, and that might be tough this time around with Mexico and South Korea in its group.

QATAR

World Cup Odds: +100000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 13: Qatar vs. Switzerland — San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara, California (3 p.m. ET)
• June 18: Qatar vs. Canada — BC Place in Vancouver, Canada (6 p.m. ET)
• June 24: Qatar vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina — Seattle Stadium (3 p.m. ET)

The 2022 World Cup was the tiny gulf state’s first World Cup, which they qualified for automatically as hosts. This time, the Maroons did it on the field. After losing all three games on home soil, Qatar – now led by former West Ham, Spain and Real Madrid manager Julen Lopetegui – is aiming for its first point on the biggest stage.

CURAÇAO

World Cup Odds: +150000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 14: Curaçao vs. Germany — Houston Stadium (1 p.m. ET)
• June 20: Curaçao vs. Ecuador —  Kansas City Stadium (8 p.m. ET)
• June 25: Curaçao vs. Ivory Coast — Philadelphia Stadium (4 p.m. ET)

How can neutrals not love the Blue Wave’s Cinderella story? In November, the Dutch territory became the smallest nation by both population (155,000) and geographic area to ever qualify for a World Cup. Just being there is a triumph for Curaçao, though the games could get ugly: Ecuador and four-time world champs Germany loom in the first round, and Dick Advocaat (who managed the Netherlands at USA ’94) resigned as coach in March to care for his ill daughter.  

CAPE VERDE

World Cup Odds: +100000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 15: Cape Verde vs. Spain — Atlanta Stadium (12 p.m. ET)
• June 21: Cape Verde vs. Uruguay — Miami Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida (6 p.m. ET)
• June 26: Cape Verde vs. Saudi Arabia — Houston Stadium (8 p.m. ET)

We love a World Cup first timer! Cabo Verde will make its very first World Cup appearance this summer, and what better way to welcome it to the global stage than by playing tournament favorite Spain in the first match? While that game on June 15 at Atlanta Stadium might end up being quite lopsided, it’s remarkable that this nation of just more than 500,000 people qualified for the World Cup in the first place. While it may not make it out of the group, it has the kind of resilience, spirit and passion that we love to see in this tournament.

JORDAN

World Cup Odds: +150000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 17: Jordan vs. Austria — San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara, California (12 a.m. ET)
• June 22: Jordan vs. Algeria — San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara, California (11 p.m. ET)
• June 27: Jordan vs. Argentina — Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas (10 p.m. ET)

Jordan will be making its World Cup debut. While it’s never been to the big dance before, it nearly qualified for the 2014 tournament by making it to the intercontinental playoffs. It didn’t work out then, but the team was rewarded for making the expanded 48-team field this time around by being drawn into a group with Argentina.

UZBEKISTAN

World Cup Odds: +150000
World Cup Group Stage Opponents:

• June 17: Uzbekistan vs. Colombia — Mexico City Stadium (10 p.m. ET)
• June 23: Uzbekistan vs. Portugal — Houston Stadium (1 p.m. ET)
• June 27: Uzbekistan vs. DR Congo — Atlanta Stadium (7:30 p.m. ET)

Another World Cup debutant! Uzbekistan may be a team largely unknown to the world at this point, but it’s coached by Favio Cannavaro, who is known to be one of the greatest defenders of all time. Cannavaro captained Italy to the World Cup in 2006, so he knows what this team is getting itself into this summer. He’s had a vast coaching career up to this point and only took over the national team in October, so we’ll see how the squad gels under him with less than a year together.

2026 FIFA World Cup: How To Watch

The World Cup will run from June 11–July 19, 2026. Spread across three countries, the tournament will culminate with the final on July 19 at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. All 104 tournament matches will air live across FOX (70) and FS1 (34) with every match streaming live and on-demand within both the FOX One and the FOX Sports apps. A record 40 matches, more than one-third of the tournament, will air in prime time across FOX (21) and FS1 (19).