Who Will Win the World Cup? Power Ranking the Contenders for 2026
The countdown to the 2026 World Cup in North America is officially on, and excitement is building across the globe. From first-time qualifiers just happy to compete to perennial powerhouses chasing glory, the latest international matches have given us a clearer picture of who might shine next summer. Here is a full look at the 27 teams most likely to make headlines — starting from the bottom and building toward the top favourites.
27. New Zealand
New Zealand booked their place with ease thanks to Oceania’s guaranteed spot but remain heavy underdogs. Chris Wood is their only elite-level player, and their main aim will be to win a first-ever World Cup match.
26. Jordan
Jordan will make their World Cup debut after a historic qualification campaign led by Ali Olwan’s hat-trick against Oman. Their passionate side has improved in recent years but expectations remain modest heading to North America.
25. Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan finally broke through and will appear at their first World Cup after years of near misses. A solid defence marshalled by Abdukodir Khusanov will be crucial if they are to reach the knockout rounds.
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24. Tunisia
Tunisia impressed in qualifying, going through their campaign without conceding a single goal. They have never reached the knockout stage before, and their lack of attacking firepower means it will still be a tall order.
23. United States
Mauricio Pochettino’s tenure has been a mixed bag, with worrying losses raising questions about the squad. Christian Pulisic’s form will be key if the USMNT hope to match their 2022 round-of-16 appearance.
22. Iran
Iran clinched their place with a dramatic draw against Uzbekistan, but depth remains an issue. Mehdi Taremi and Sardar Azmoun continue to lead the line, and a favorable draw could help them make history.
21. Australia
The Socceroos are heading to their sixth straight World Cup but lack big-name stars. Coach Tony Popovic has introduced exciting youngsters, though matching their 2006 and 2022 runs will be difficult.
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20. Canada
Jesse Marsch has revitalized Canada, who are rising in the FIFA rankings and brimming with belief. Jonathan David leads the attack while Alphonso Davies is expected to be fully fit in time for the tournament.
19. Paraguay
Paraguay have enjoyed a remarkable turnaround under Gustavo Alfaro, going on an impressive unbeaten run that included wins over Brazil and Argentina. Their defence, anchored by veteran Gustavo Gomez, is their greatest strength.
18. Mexico
Javier Aguirre’s return as coach has already brought success, with Mexico winning both the Nations League and Gold Cup. Questions remain, however, over whether this team can finally get past the round of 16.
17. Italy
Italy are entertaining again under Gennaro Gattuso, scoring plenty of goals but also conceding too many. They still risk missing a third consecutive World Cup if their form doesn’t stabilize.
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16. Colombia
Nestor Lorenzo has brought Colombia back to the big stage, with James Rodriguez and Luis Diaz playing key roles. Their late stumbles in qualifying show they remain inconsistent, but the talent is undeniable.
15. Belgium
Belgium have been in free-scoring form, but the quality of their opposition leaves questions unanswered. Kevin De Bruyne remains their key man, though many feel their golden generation has already peaked.
14. Croatia
Croatia are once again defying the odds, led by the evergreen Luka Modric who could play at 40. Young talents like Petar Sucic and Franjo Ivanovic are emerging, keeping them competitive.
13. Uruguay
Marcelo Bielsa has turned Uruguay into one of the most entertaining sides to watch. With Darwin Núñez and Federico Valverde in attack, they will be a dangerous opponent for anyone next summer.
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12. Japan
Japan were the first team to qualify for the tournament, boasting a settled and talented lineup led by Wataru Endo. Depth remains a concern, but their attacking football makes them a threat.
11. South Korea
South Korea qualified unbeaten and look revitalized under Hong Myung-bo. Son Heung-min’s move to MLS could help him arrive fresh and firing for the World Cup.
10. Ecuador
Ecuador boast one of the best defences in world football, conceding just five goals in qualifying. With Moises Caicedo shielding the backline, they will be a nightmare for opponents.
9. Morocco
Morocco are Africa’s best hope once again, riding a 14-match winning streak. Achraf Hakimi and Brahim Diaz lead a confident, balanced team that will aim for another deep run.
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8. Brazil
Carlo Ancelotti is still molding Brazil into a cohesive unit, with flashes of brilliance from new talents like Estevao Willian. Consistency remains their biggest issue heading into 2026.
7. Netherlands
The Dutch continue to frustrate with their inconsistency, blowing hot and cold in qualifying. Memphis Depay is still their main man, capable of winning games single-handedly.
6. Germany
Julian Nagelsmann’s side is struggling for rhythm and still lacks a prolific striker. Qualification is likely, but there are doubts over their ability to win it all.
5. France
France have been quietly rebuilding, with Kylian Mbappé back to his best and Michael Olise starring. Deschamps’ team remains hard to beat and will be a major contender.
4. Portugal
Portugal’s Nations League triumph saved Roberto Martinez and Cristiano Ronaldo from intense scrutiny. With a stacked squad of young stars, they are still capable of a deep run.
3. England
Thomas Tuchel has brought new life to England, who are dominant in qualifying and defensively solid. The emergence of young talents adds depth and raises hopes of finally ending their trophy drought.
2. Argentina
Argentina’s hopes rest on whether Lionel Messi plays on for one last dance. Even without him, they remain a formidable side led by Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez.
1. Spain
Spain were brilliant at Euro 2024 and look even better now, scoring freely and playing with confidence. With Lamine Yamal and Pedri leading the charge, they are the team to beat heading into 2026.
