World Cup 2026 Group Stage Predictions: Who Will Advance to the Round of 32 in North America?

World Cup 2026 Group Stage Forecasts

The 2026 World Cup, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, promises to be the largest ever. Argentina enters as the defending champions after their dramatic win in Qatar 2022. European powers like France and Spain are seen as strong contenders, while England seeks to end a six-decade trophy drought.

The tournament's expansion offers more chances for newcomers like Curacao and Iraq to leave their mark, setting the stage for potential underdog stories. Below is a group-by-group analysis predicting who will make it past the group stage into the knockout rounds.

Group A

Featuring Mexico, South Korea, Czechia, and South Africa, this group leans in favor of Mexico, especially with home advantage and a favorable draw. South Korea, with Son Heung-min playing what could be his final World Cup, seems positioned for second place. Czechia narrowly qualified through playoffs and might struggle, while South Africa returns for the first time since 2010.

Group B

Switzerland, Canada, Qatar, and Bosnia and Herzegovina make up Group B. Bosnia’s surprise playoff win over Italy shakes things up here. Switzerland looks set to top the group, but Canada benefits from home soil matches and holds decent qualification odds. Qatar, fresh off back-to-back Asian Cup titles, could still cause some trouble.

Group C

Brazil, Morocco, Scotland, and Haiti battle in Group C. Brazil aims to add to its record fifth title under Carlo Ancelotti. Morocco, recent African champions, and Scotland both look capable of advancing. Haiti’s presence may help Scotland reach the knockout rounds for the first time.

Group D

The United States, hosting again, faces Australia, Turkey, and Paraguay. The US team impressed with a 4-1 opening win but should not take anything for granted as Turkey and Paraguay could challenge for the top spot. This group is tightly contested with all teams able to claim points.

Group E

Germany leads Group E with Ivory Coast, Ecuador, and Curacao rounding out the field. Since their 2014 victory, Germany has had early exits but looks prepared to progress comfortably this time. Ivory Coast and Ecuador can threaten if Germany slips, while Curacao hopes to create moments rather than advance.

Group F

Sweden, Japan, Netherlands, and Tunisia form what may be the tournament’s toughest group. Japan and the Netherlands are favored to top the group, but Sweden’s strong start keeps them in contention. Tunisia will try to avoid a third consecutive group stage exit.

Group G

Belgium and Egypt, led by stars Kevin De Bruyne and Mohamed Salah, seem likely to progress alongside Iran and New Zealand. Iran’s participation involves complex visa issues, which could affect their campaign. New Zealand would cause an upset if they advanced.

Group H

Spain, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, and Cape Verde compete in Group H. Spain benefits from an opening match against lower-ranked Cape Verde and may face Uruguay last once key players regain fitness. Saudi Arabia looks for a breakthrough after past struggles.

Group I

France, Norway, Senegal, and Iraq make up Group I. The anticipated star clash between Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland highlights this group. France is expected to lead, with Norway and Senegal ready to capitalize if France falters. Iraq’s qualification via playoff and solid pre-tournament results suggest potential surprises.

Group J

Argentina, Algeria, Austria, and Jordan battle in Group J. Argentina aims to avoid a rocky start like in Qatar and dominate the group. Austria impressed at Euro 2024 and could be a strong contender for second place. Algeria and Jordan face tough tests ahead.

Group K

Portugal, DR Congo, Uzbekistan, and Colombia form Group K. Cristiano Ronaldo returns for his sixth and probably final World Cup appearance. Portugal and Colombia are expected to advance, while Uzbekistan and DR Congo focus on gaining experience and memorable moments.

Group L

England, Croatia, Ghana, and Panama close out the group stage in Group L. England, under new coach Thomas Tuchel, faces a tough opener against Croatia, who remain a formidable opponent. Ghana and Panama will have uphill battles to secure advancement.