Top Contenders for the 2026 World Cup, Ranked

The next World Cup promises to be the biggest yet. For the first time, 48 teams will battle it out across North America, offering a chance for more nations than ever before to make their mark. Despite this expansion, the familiar giants of Europe and South America remain the primary contenders for the trophy.

10. Norway

Norway enters the conversation as a potential surprise thanks largely to Erling Haaland. His scoring ability, paired with the creativity of Martin Ødegaard, gives Norway a serious threat in attack. Their perfect qualifying run, including big wins over Italy, raised expectations. Other contributors like Alexander Sørloth and Jørgen Strand Larsen help ease Haaland's scoring load. Still, Norway’s limited World Cup experience might hold them back despite their attacking promise.

9. Colombia

Colombia remains a tough competitor with a blend of grit and talent. Though recent losses to Croatia and France dented confidence, they qualified third and reached the 2024 Copa América final. Luis Díaz, fresh off an impressive debut season at Bayern Munich, leads their charge. Colombia has knockout experience from previous tournaments but missed out in 2022. They’ll aim to regain lost ground this summer.

8. Germany

Once a dominant force, Germany now shows signs of decline since their 2014 triumph. The squad under Julian Nagelsmann carries quality, especially in creative midfielders like Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala, alongside defensive leaders Joshua Kimmich and Antonio Rüdiger. Yet, the absence of legends such as Toni Kroos, Thomas Müller, and Manuel Neuer leaves a gap. Germany can be unpredictable, capable of strong performances or early exits.

7. Netherlands

The Netherlands continue chasing their elusive first World Cup title. Legends like Johan Cruyff and Marco van Basten never secured the trophy, nor has this generation. Coached by Ronald Koeman, who steered them to the Euro 2024 semifinals, the team boasts solid defense and midfield but struggles with consistent goal-scoring upfront. On their best days, the Oranje can defeat anyone, fueled by deep-rooted confidence.

6. Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo commands much attention, but Portugal’s success will hinge on players like Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, and Nuno Mendes. Roberto Martínez's coaching raises questions given past performances with Belgium, yet Portugal’s roster contains enough talent to challenge for glory. Fans hope this team can deliver what eluded previous generations.

5. England

England remains a regular among favorites, even 60 years after their sole World Cup win. Mixed results in recent friendlies sparked doubts about their ability to go all the way. The squad includes stars like Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, Cole Palmer, and Harry Kane, but sometimes plays cautiously under Thomas Tuchel. Still, a perfect qualifying campaign and experience reaching recent European finals and the 2018 World Cup semifinals show they have what it takes to advance.

4. Brazil

Brazil no longer dominates as it once did, but retains a wealth of attacking talent including Vinicius Junior, João Pedro, Matheus Cunha, and Raphinha. Carlo Ancelotti’s arrival as coach brings hope; his track record in knockout competitions is impressive. Despite some weaknesses, Brazil’s natural skill sets them apart. A sixth world title would not surprise many.

3. Argentina

As reigning champions, Argentina stands among the top favorites. Lionel Messi continues to inspire, and most of the winning core from Qatar remain. Their strong qualification performance topped South America. Although retaining a World Cup is rare, Argentina’s consistency and belief make them a formidable opponent. Messi lifting the trophy again seems quite possible.

2. Spain

Europe’s current champions, Spain boasts a talented and balanced squad under Luis de la Fuente. The team hasn’t lost in 90 minutes since March 2024, showing resilience. Their midfield trio—Pedri, Rodri, and Martín Zubiemndi—is exceptional, supported by a solid defense and rising star Lamine Yamal. Spain’s depth and flair make them dangerous in knockout stages.

1. France

France ranks as our top pick for the tournament. In Didier Deschamps’s final World Cup as coach, Les Bleus pursue a third title and revenge for their 2022 loss to Argentina. Their squad depth is unmatched, with Kylian Mbappé leading a talented group that includes Michael Olise, Désiré Doué, Hugo Ekitiké, Rayan Cherki, and Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé. A strong midfield and solid defense suggest France will reach the late stages and could prove unstoppable in North America.