World Cup 2026 Power Rankings: From Underdogs to Favorites
As the road to the 2026 World Cup heats up, nations across the globe are jostling for momentum ahead of the biggest tournament in football. From debutants to perennial powerhouses, here’s how the qualified teams and top contenders rank as we stand just a year away from kickoff in North America.
21. New Zealand
New Zealand cruised through Oceania qualifiers, as expected, but concerns remain over their global competitiveness. Despite a recent friendly win against Ivory Coast, their limited success outside OFC and lack of depth make them one of the tournament’s biggest longshots.
20. Jordan
Jordan have qualified for their first World Cup and celebrations have erupted across the country. Ali Olwan’s hat-trick secured their place, but expectations remain modest for a side mostly comprised of domestic-based players.
19. Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan finally reached their first World Cup after years of close calls. With defensive leader Abdukodir Khusanov and attackers like Eldor Shomurodov and Abbosbek Fayzullaev, they’ll hope to surprise a few in the group stage.
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18. United States
The USMNT are in a slump despite hosting the tournament. Mauricio Pochettino’s arrival has yet to spark improvement, and a four-game losing streak has raised doubts about their readiness.
17. Australia
Australia secured their spot with a win over Saudi Arabia and a dramatic victory against Japan. While the squad lacks star power, results have improved under Tony Popovic’s leadership.
16. Canada
Jesse Marsch has brought new energy to Canada, highlighted by a Copa America semi-final run and wins over the US and Ukraine. The major concern is Alphonso Davies’ fitness following an ACL injury.
15. Iran
Iran are consistent qualifiers with a seasoned core led by Mehdi Taremi and Sardar Azmoun. However, external political factors could limit fan support in the US, casting a shadow over their campaign.
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14. Mexico
Mexico remain volatile under Javier Aguirre’s third spell in charge, but recent Nations League success shows potential. With Santiago Gimenez emerging, they aim to rediscover the magic of past World Cups.
13. South Korea
South Korea made it 11 straight World Cup appearances and ended qualifying unbeaten. Aging stars like Son Heung-min remain vital, but a new generation is being groomed under Hong Myung-bo.
12. Ecuador
Ecuador boast one of the tournament’s most resilient defenses, conceding just five goals in 16 qualifiers. They lack cutting edge in attack, but their gritty structure makes them a threat to any opponent.
11. Belgium
Belgium's golden generation is fading fast, and despite new blood like Jeremy Doku, the team still leans heavily on Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne. Their inconsistent form raises doubts about a deep run.
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10. Japan
Japan were the first to qualify and remain one of Asia's strongest teams. With stars like Takefusa Kubo and Wataru Endo, they aim to reach the quarter-finals for the first time.
9. Brazil
Carlo Ancelotti's arrival brings fresh hope to Brazil despite a relatively weak squad by their standards. Vinicius Jr is thriving, but midfield frailty and the lack of a consistent striker remain issues.
8. Italy
Italy’s chaotic campaign continues with coaching changes and inconsistent performances. With qualification still uncertain, the Azzurri need a stabilizing presence to avoid missing another World Cup.
7. England
Thomas Tuchel's England haven't looked convincing despite good results in qualifying. Familiar faces and stale tactics are raising questions about whether this new era is truly a fresh start.
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6. Netherlands
The Dutch are an enigma: talented but unpredictable. With rising stars like Xavi Simons and a solid defensive core, they have the tools to contend if they can solve their striker dilemma.
5. Germany
Julian Nagelsmann has revived Germany's spirit, but recent losses and the retirement of key veterans pose challenges. A promising attack led by Musiala and Wirtz must carry the load in the absence of a proven striker.
4. France
France are stabilizing after a post-Euro slump, thanks to a rejuvenated attack and Kylian Mbappe’s return. Deschamps still commands a deep, dangerous squad capable of reaching the final stages again.
3. Portugal
Portugal’s Nations League triumph has reenergized the squad and secured Cristiano Ronaldo’s spot for one more tournament. With emerging stars like Joao Neves and Vitinha, they look primed for a strong campaign.
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2. Spain
Spain’s Euro 2024 title was a testament to their growing balance between youth and experience. Lamine Yamal leads a dynamic attack, while their midfield trio remains one of the world’s finest.
1. Argentina
Argentina remain the team to beat, with or without Lionel Messi. Their Copa America win and depth of emerging talent signal a squad built to defend their title in North America.
