Published: 9 June 2026

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off, our team of football writers share their predictions for how the tournament might unfold. As always, we’re fully prepared to look completely foolish by the end of the summer.

Harry Diamond: France – Les Bleus bring vast World Cup experience after appearing in two consecutive finals. Their attacking trio of Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele (the current Ballon d’Or holder), and Michael Olise makes them a frightening prospect. Although France have a challenging start in Group I, they appear to be the side everyone will have to beat.

Ste McGovern: Spain – If Lamine Yamal stays fit, the reigning European champions will be extremely difficult to overcome.

Ayoob Rahman: Spain – Coming off their recent European triumph, Spain look the most balanced and complete side globally. Their exceptional midfield control combined with rapid, dangerous wingers makes them the strongest favourites to claim the title.

Mohon Chanda: Argentina – Still the team to beat. I genuinely think South American sides will outperform the European nations this time around.

HD: Brazil – A rough qualification journey hasn’t done much to inspire confidence in Brazil, even with their world-class players and an elite manager at the helm. The Selecao must begin well against Morocco and Scotland in their group, or they could face early challenges.

SM: Brazil – I know better than to bet against Carlo Ancelotti in a knockout competition, but some of his squad choices are still quite puzzling.

AR: Argentina – With one of the most experienced squads in the tournament, Argentina could find it hard to keep up with younger, high-pressing teams in the summer heat. Their reliance on aging stars might cause tactical issues and possibly an early exit.

MC: France – France’s squad is loaded with talent, but their midfield and defence seem to lack rhythm coming into the tournament. Didier Deschamps’s men haven’t kept a clean sheet in five matches.

HD: Norway – Erling Haaland and his teammates return to the global stage for the first time in 28 years. They breezed through qualification, thrashing an admittedly below-par Italy home and away. While Haaland will grab headlines, players like Martin Odegaard, Alexander Sorloth, and Jules Ryerson add depth. Their group is tough but manageable.

SM: Japan – I’ve got a good feeling about the Samurai Blue this year. I fancy them to top Group F and spring a surprise or two in the knockout phase.

AR: DR Congo – The DR Congo squad is full of energy and athleticism, capable of catching big nations off guard. Their fearless, fast-paced counter-attacks could take them deep into the knockout rounds.

MC: Norway – Norway aren’t just about Haaland. They’ve got several top performers at club level, and I expect Alexander Sorloth to contribute his share of goals.

HD: Kylian Mbappe (France) – Backing France for glory means Mbappe is my pick for the Golden Ball. With a dozen World Cup goals already, he’s got a shot at becoming the tournament’s all-time top scorer by next month.

SM: Lamine Yamal (Spain) – Provided Spain make the final, Yamal could take this award.

AR: Kylian Mbappe (France) – As France’s star man, Mbappe has the rare ability to decide matches single-handedly. If France go deep into the tournament, his goals and performances could see him named best player.

MC: Lionel Messi (Argentina) – If Argentina lift the trophy, it’s only logical to pick their captain again for the Golden Ball. Messi always finds a way to deliver.

HD: Julian Alvarez (Argentina) – Golden Boot winners often rack up their goals early, and with Argentina facing Algeria, Austria, and Jordan in a relatively easy group, Alvarez could score heavily.

SM: Erling Haaland (Norway) – The Manchester City striker might not play for a favourite, but he’ll likely pile on the goals in the group stage and beyond.

AR: Erling Haaland (Norway) – Now that Norway have reached the main stage, Haaland will be eager to prove himself. With creative support feeding him, he’s a strong contender for the top scorer award.

MC: Lionel Messi (Argentina) – Haaland and Mbappe are major threats, but I don’t see Norway or France progressing as far as Argentina.

HD: Lamine Yamal (Spain) – Despite his youth, Yamal already plays like a seasoned pro. If Spain reach the semi-finals, he’ll likely be favourite for the Young Player award.

SM: Nico Paz (Argentina) – The Argentine midfielder had a remarkable season with Como, and I expect him to shine on the global stage.

AR: Lamine Yamal (Spain) – Even at his young age, Yamal is already elite. His dazzling dribbling and smart play make him the leading candidate for the young player honour.

MC: Antonio Nusa (Norway) – Everyone’s watching Haaland, but keep an eye on Leipzig winger Nusa.

HD: Donyell Malen (Netherlands) – After a brilliant spell at Roma since his January move, I’m eager to see if Malen can carry that form into the World Cup. The Dutch attack remains their biggest question mark.

SM: Endrick (Brazil) – Once Real Madrid’s forgotten prodigy, Endrick rebuilt his career on loan at Lyon. The 19-year-old could be Brazil’s key man in Estevao’s absence.

AR: Assan Ouédraogo (Germany) – The young midfielder was a late addition to the German squad after Lennart Karl’s injury. His dynamic runs and strong shooting make him a valuable impact player.

MC: Jules Ryerson (Norway) – The full-back had a sensational season for Borussia Dortmund, providing 15 assists in the Bundesliga, and will be crucial for Norway’s creativity from the flanks.