The World Cup begins Thursday in Mexico City. It’s time to predict how the largest tournament in history will unfold. From those enjoying the North American summer to those aiming for the trophy, here are predictions for all 48 teams of the 2026 World Cup.

The Happy To Be Here Tier

The lowest-ranked group comprises countries thrilled for the opportunity rather than contending for the title.

• 48. Curaçao
• 47. Haiti
• 46. Iraq
• 45. Jordan
• 44. South Africa
• 43. New Zealand
• 42. Qatar
• 41. Saudi Arabia
• 40. Panama
• 39. Cape Verde
• 38. DR Congo

Debutant teams like Jordan, Curaçao, and Cape Verde bring fresh energy. Though unlikely to reach knockouts, earning a point would be significant.

The Scrappy Underdog Tier

These teams have potential to surprise and reach the Round of 32.

• 37. Tunisia
• 36. Ghana
• 35. Australia
• 34. Egypt
• 33. Bosnia & Herzegovina
• 32. Ivory Coast
• 31. Uzbekistan
• 30. Algeria
• 29. Czechia
• 28. Iran
• 27. Paraguay
• 26. Austria
• 25. Scotland

Uzbekistan, called the “White Wolves,” stands out with a solid defense and Manchester City’s Abdukodir Khusanov anchoring their squad.

The Dark Horse Tier

Host nations and other capable teams fill this tier with potential to advance significantly.

• 24. Sweden
• 23. South Korea
• 22. Canada
• 21. Switzerland
• 20. Mexico
• 19. Uruguay
• 18. Senegal
• 17. Turkey
• 16. USA

Turkey and Senegal show promise to make the quarterfinals if they reach peak performance.

The Super Dark Horse Tier

These teams offer unexpected potential, excelling in specialized areas.

• 15. Ecuador
• 14. Colombia
• 13. Japan
• 12. Morocco
• 11. Norway

Ecuador and Morocco boast strong defenses. Norway and Colombia have powerful offenses, while Japan excels in teamwork despite less recognition.

The Perennial Contenders Tier

These established teams might not start strong but can rally and aim for the final.

• 10. Croatia
• 9. Belgium
• 8. Netherlands
• 7. Germany
• 6. Brazil

With historical success, all these nations are potential finalists. Croatia builds on recent semifinal appearances, and Brazil holds the most World Cup titles.

The Pressure Is On Tier

England and Portugal face immense expectations to perform.

• 5. England
• 4. Portugal

England needs to capitalize on their recent success and talent pool. Portugal seeks a final shot for Cristiano Ronaldo, aiming to end his career on a high.

The Golden Trio Tier

The favorites, boasting talent, historical wins, and leading stars.

• 3. Argentina
• 2. Spain
• 1. France

Argentina, Spain, and France have a balance of youthful talent and proven winners like Messi, Rodri, and Mbappé. They are strong contenders to claim the championship in New Jersey.