World Cup 2026 power rankings: Senegal surge as Spain set the pace

16. Croatia

Croatia continue to defy expectations with a generation of experienced players who refuse to fade away. Luka Modric will lead the team again, potentially at 40 years old. Other veterans such as Ivan Perisic and Andrej Kramaric remain important contributors. At the same time, younger defenders like Josko Gvardiol represent the future. Croatia’s tournament experience is a huge advantage. They will expect to reach the knockout rounds once again.

15. United States

The United States appear to be improving under coach Mauricio Pochettino after a period of instability. A convincing 5-1 victory over Uruguay showed the potential within the squad. The team also demonstrated depth by winning matches without several key players. Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie remain central figures. As co-hosts, the Americans will feel the pressure of expectation. A favourable group draw offers hope for a strong run.

14. Morocco

Morocco were one of the most inspiring teams at the 2022 World Cup and remain highly talented. However, their dramatic AFCON final defeat to Senegal created doubts about their momentum. Brahim Diaz missed a late "Panenka" penalty that would have won the match. That painful moment may linger psychologically. On paper, Morocco still have the quality to challenge major teams. Whether they recover emotionally will be crucial.

13. Senegal

Senegal have surged up the rankings after winning their second Africa Cup of Nations title. The victory over Morocco in Rabat was particularly impressive. Sadio Mane continues to lead the team with experience and determination. The squad also includes strong defensive figures like Kalidou Koulibaly. Young talents are emerging to complement the experienced core. Senegal now look capable of causing serious problems at the World Cup.

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12. Brazil

Brazil finally appointed Carlo Ancelotti as coach and hope his experience will guide them back to the top. The squad contains tremendous attacking talent, including Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo. However, the team struggled for consistency during qualification. The lack of a reliable central striker remains a concern. Midfielder Casemiro has returned to form at an important time. If Ancelotti can create better cohesion, Brazil could become a major contender again.

11. Colombia

Colombia have been one of the most entertaining teams in South America under coach Nestor Lorenzo. They reached the Copa America final and qualified for the World Cup with confidence. Luis Diaz has become the team’s main attacking star. James Rodriguez continues to influence matches with his creativity. Several supporting attackers provide additional scoring options. Colombia’s challenge is maintaining consistency throughout the tournament.

10. Belgium

Belgium remain a talented side but are no longer viewed as clear favourites for major titles. Their so-called golden generation is gradually fading. Kevin De Bruyne still leads the team, though the supporting cast is evolving. Qualification came without defeat but lacked convincing performances. Younger players such as Jeremy Doku are stepping into bigger roles. Belgium should progress from their group but face questions beyond that stage.

9. Norway

Norway will return to the World Cup for the first time since 1998. Their qualification campaign included a statement victory over Italy in Milan. Erling Haaland remains one of the most dangerous strikers in world football. Captain Martin Odegaard provides creativity and leadership in midfield. Supporting attackers like Oscar Bobb and Jorgen Strand Larsen add depth. Norway’s biggest challenge will be surviving a tough group.

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8. Switzerland

Switzerland have become extremely reliable when it comes to qualifying for major tournaments. Their disciplined approach makes them difficult opponents. Midfielder Granit Xhaka is playing some of the best football of his career. Breel Embolo provides a strong goal-scoring presence. Younger players are also emerging within the squad. Switzerland will expect to reach the knockout stage again.

7. Netherlands

The Netherlands often arrive at tournaments surrounded by uncertainty but still produce strong performances. Their qualification record was impressive, with no defeats and a strong defensive record. Virgil van Dijk leads an experienced back line. In attack, Memphis Depay, Cody Gakpo and Xavi Simons offer creativity and goals. The team’s overall balance makes them a dangerous opponent. Many observers consider them dark horses.

6. Germany

Germany recovered from a difficult start to qualification and finished strongly with several convincing victories. Coach Julian Nagelsmann has begun building a more cohesive and exciting team. Young stars such as Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz provide creativity in attack. Leroy Sane’s improved form has also strengthened the front line. Germany’s group appears manageable. If momentum continues, they could challenge the top contenders.

5. France

France remain one of the most talented squads in world football despite criticism of their cautious style. Coach Didier Deschamps has built a team that rarely loses important matches. Kylian Mbappe’s return to form has revitalised the attack. Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembele have also improved significantly. Their qualification campaign was efficient and defensively solid. A difficult group will test them early in the tournament.

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4. Portugal

Portugal revived their confidence by winning the Nations League after the disappointment of Euro 2024. Cristiano Ronaldo continues to lead the team even as he approaches the end of his career. Debate remains about whether Portugal might benefit from a more mobile attack. Nevertheless, the squad is full of technical quality and depth. Roberto Martinez must find the right balance between experience and youth. If he succeeds, Portugal could be genuine contenders.

3. England

England appear well positioned heading into the 2026 World Cup under new coach Thomas Tuchel. Their qualification campaign was statistically perfect, with every match won and no goals conceded. Harry Kane remains one of the most complete strikers in international football. Jude Bellingham provides creativity and leadership in midfield. The squad is packed with talent across every position. Many supporters believe this could finally be England’s moment.

2. Argentina

Argentina remain one of the strongest teams in the world whether Lionel Messi plays or not. Coach Lionel Scaloni has developed a balanced squad capable of competing at the highest level. Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez provide excellent scoring options. Younger players such as Nico Paz and Franco Mastantuono represent the future. The team’s confidence remains high after recent success. If Messi decides to play, Argentina’s title defence becomes even more realistic.

1. Spain

Spain sit at the top of the rankings thanks to their brilliant form and impressive squad depth. Their Euro 2024 victory demonstrated a perfect balance between youth and experience. Lamine Yamal and Pedri continue to develop into world-class players. The team’s fluid attacking style creates chances from many positions. Even without a traditional striker, Spain score consistently. With momentum on their side, they enter the World Cup as one of the clear favourites.

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