Breaking: The expanded 2026 World Cup — 48 teams across North America — begins this week, with Spain, France, Brazil, England, Portugal and Argentina emerging as pre-tournament favourites. Early group-stage tests for England (Group L) and Scotland (Group C) could define momentum as the new format increases opportunity and unpredictability in this biggest-ever World Cup.
Who are the favourites to win the 2026 World Cup?
Spain — tournament favourites on form and depth
Spain arrive as one of the most complete sides, blending midfield control and creative width. Youth and experience coexist in a squad capable of dominating possession and breaking down compact opponents. Their Euro 2024 triumph adds tangible momentum; if they avoid key injuries they should be serious contenders to go deep.
France — pedigree and tournament habit
France remain a perennial threat after consecutive World Cup finals appearances. Rich in talent from front to back, their squad depth allows rotational flexibility in a congested tournament. Tactical discipline and big-game experience make them a top pick, though knockout football will test their consistency.
Brazil — historical weight and attacking firepower
Five-time champions, Brazil always carry a target on their back. Their blend of flair and physicality makes them dangerous in transition. Success hinges on defensive steadiness and taking chances in tight knockout matches — areas that will decide if they can reclaim global supremacy.
England — high expectations, mixed legacy
England head into Group L with genuine talent and public expectation. The long wait for a second World Cup title adds pressure; navigating Croatia, Ghana and Panama will require composure. Early group performances will determine whether England’s tournament is measured in genuine ambition or short-term hype.
Portugal — quality midfield and veteran leadership
Portugal possess midfield creativity and a mix of seasoned leaders and emerging talents. Their chances depend on cohesion and finding cutting edge in knockout ties. If their midfield trio clicks, Portugal can be a dark horse for the latter stages.
Argentina — defending champions with a target on their back
Argentina remain dangerous as reigning winners. Their core experience from 2022 gives them psychological advantages, but opponents will prepare specifically to nullify their strengths. Maintaining intensity across a longer, expanded tournament will be crucial.
England and Scotland: group-stage schedules and implications
England — Group L fixtures
England v Croatia — Wednesday, June 17 — 3pm local / 9pm UK time
England v Ghana — Tuesday, June 23 — 4pm local / 9pm UK time
Panama v England — Saturday, June 27 — 5pm local / 10pm UK time
These matchups test different qualities: tactical nous against Croatia, physicality and speed against Ghana, and focus against Panama. How England manage rotation and game management will shape their knockout readiness.
Scotland — Group C fixtures
Haiti v Scotland — Saturday, June 13 — 9pm local / 2am (June 14) UK time
Scotland v Morocco — Friday, June 19 — 6pm local / 11pm UK time
Scotland v Brazil — Wednesday, June 24 — 6pm local / 11pm UK time
Scotland face a steep path with Morocco and Brazil in the group. Early momentum from the opener will be vital; defensive organisation and set-piece threat could be Scotland’s best routes to advancing.
What the expanded format means for the competition
The jump to 48 teams and 12 groups increases inclusivity but complicates knockout qualification scenarios. More matches create scheduling stress and greater variance — underdogs have brighter windows to upset established powers. Squad depth, recovery planning and smart rotation become as decisive as tactical systems.
Looking ahead: the 2030 hosts and the centennial
The 2030 World Cup will be hosted jointly by Morocco, Portugal and Spain, with centennial matches staged in Uruguay — a symbolic nod to the tournament’s origins. That rotation highlights football’s global evolution and will shift logistical and tactical planning for qualifying nations already eyeing long-term cycles.
What to watch in the opening weeks
Key indicators early on: how favourites cope with fixture congestion, which managers trust youth over experience, and which teams turn group-stage momentum into knockout resilience. Expect surprises — the expanded field makes upsets likelier — but also clearer patterns about which heavyweights are tournament-ready.
Norwich players continue World Cup preparations
This year's World Cup will see 48 teams taking part across 12 groups in what is the biggest World Cup ever. See who are the favourites.
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