Welcome to Daily Mail Sport’s ultimate guide to the 2026 World Cup draw.
This is the biggest World Cup yet with 48 teams, set amid the political machinations of Donald Trump and the awkward posturing of FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
It’s the last where we’ll have the great Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo and the first with Lamine Yamal and Erling Haaland. Who knows what to expect?
The draw (5pm GMT today) may well indicate how the United States, Canada and Mexico aim to make it the best one ever.
Village People will set the tone, performing their iconic dance hit ‘YMCA’ in Washington, with Trump, who has adopted it for his MAGA rallies, watching on.
Robbie Williams, Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli and former Pussycat Dolls singer Nicole Scherzinger will also be part of the show, with comedian Kevin Hart, model Heidi Klum, and actor Danny Ramirez hosting the draw for next summer’s tournament, which kicks off on June 11.
The ceremony is expected to last hours, with FIFA handing out a new award called the ‘Peace Prize’.
It has been a long road to get to this stage. Teams in Asia, Africa, and South America started their qualification campaigns in 2023. Some teams are still waiting to squeeze in via the play-offs in March.
But we now know the identities of 42 out of the 48 nations who will contest the 2026 edition in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Cape Verde, Curacao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan will make their debuts. Brazil will contest their 23rd and are aiming for a sixth title. England, six decades and 472 capped players since their last title, crave validation again.
England and the USA are in pot 1, while Scotland are in pot 3. For England, the toughest draw is likely to involve Morocco, Erling Haaland’s Norway and Italy, who have to make it through a qualifier. Their easiest draw would be Australia, Curacao, and qualifiers Suriname (ranked 123 in the world).
Scotland will hope to face a host nation from pot 1, Australia and Suriname. Their worst-case scenario is Argentina, Morocco and Italy.
We’ve compiled a guide on the 42 teams we know so far, the work of 17 writers from both sides of the Atlantic so you’re well prepared.
Your guide to every nation competing at the 2026 World Cup
Algeria
FIFA rank: 35
World Cups participated in: 4 (1982, 1986, 2010, 2014)
World Cup wins: 0
Manager: Vladimir Petkovic. Best known for his seven-year spell in charge of Switzerland between 2014 and 2021, the Bosnian has a wealth of international experience – having guided the Swiss through three major tournaments and to the quarter-final stage at Euro 2020.
Player to watch: Riyad Mahrez. Given Algeria failed to qualify for the last two tournaments, next summer’s World Cup could well be the last time we see the 34-year-old superstar on the grandest stage. Now two years into his Al-Ahli career in Saudi Arabia and with over 100 caps to his name, he’ll be eager to go out with a bang.
Why you should tune in to watch them: Although Mahrez is the most high-profile name, Algeria boast a wealth of impressive stars from Manchester City’s Rayan Ait-Nouri to Wolfsburg’s in-form forward Mohamed Amoura. African nations often set the World Cup alive with passion and flair and there’s no reason why Algeria cannot be this tournament’s Morocco from 2022.
Ben Willcocks
Argentina
FIFA rank: 2
World Cups participated in: 17 (1930, 1934, 1958, 1962, 1966, 1974, 1978, 1982, 1986, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022)
World Cup wins: Three (1978, 1986, 2022)
Manager: Lionel Scaloni. The 47-year-old was sainted and holds legendary status after winning the World Cup in 2022 – and his team is arguably getting better… but this is probably the last big tournament for a certain individual from Rosario, Santa Fe…
Player to watch: Lionel Messi. Genuinely, we considered putting down Julian Alvarez for this – as the Atletico Madrid striker is in the form of his life and one of the best No 9s in the world – but then we saw sense. Messi shook hands with paradise on that famous night in Doha, 2022. Now he has the chance to do it again in North America, the continent where he now plies his trade.
Why you should tune in to watch them: It’ll be the last World Cup for the little man, the greatest sportsman to ever walk this planet. So do all you can to savour every last second before it’s too late.
Lewis Steele
Australia
FIFA rank: 26
World Cups participated in: Six (1974, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018 and 2022)
World Cup Wins: None
Manager: Tony Popovic. Having donned the green and gold as a player, Socceroos boss Popovic believes the side has lost much of their DNA in recent years. But he could be the man to bring it back. Qualification for 2026 seemed daunting at first, but the ex-Crystal Palace boss has galvanised his team since taking over in September 2024 to rekindle their ‘toughness’ and fighting spirit, with Australia securing automatic qualification for the first time in two World Cups.
Player to watch: Aiden O’Neill. A defensive midfielder with a knack for scoring screamers, O’Neill is not afraid to get forward and have a crack at goal from outside the penalty area. Many will remember him from his time at Burnley but O’Neill found his feet playing for Melbourne City, using his elite engine to dominate midfields. Keep an eye out for his booming right foot.
Why you should tune in to watch them: Australia has a very young and exciting crop of players, including 21-year-old striker Mohamed Toure and Watford winger Nestory Irankunda. Popovic’s side like to use their speed to move the ball quickly, which makes them an exciting team to watch. There is plenty of experience with the likes of Jackson Irvine and Martin Boyle. I expect they could cause a few upsets.
Ed Carruthers
Austria
FIFA rank: 24
World Cups participated in: 7 (1934, 1954, 1958, 1978, 1982, 1990, 1998)
World Cup wins: 0
Manager: Ralf Rangnick. After a dismal spell as caretaker of Man United, Rangnick has redeemed himself in Austria. He helped the country to the Euros in 2024 and now the World Cup, which is remarkably the country’s first in almost 30 years.
Player to watch: Marko Arnautovic. ‘He’s a great guy but he has the attitude of a kid,’ Jose Mourinho once said of Arnautovic, who was best buds with a certain Mario Balotelli at Inter Milan. A maverick with a temper, the 37-year-old front man could be key for his country in North America. Nowadays the former Stoke City man plies his trade at Red Star Belgrade.
Why you should tune in to watch them: With an experienced manager and the likes of David Alaba and Marcel Sabitzer in their ranks, Austria could be dark horses in North America. As one local journalist said: ‘They’re fast, they’re fun and they’re so good to watch.’
Gethin Hicks
Belgium
FIFA rank: 8th
World Cups participated in: 14 (1930, 1934, 1938, 1954, 1970, 1982, 1986, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2002, 2014, 2018, 2022)
World Cup wins: 0
Manager: Rudi Garcia. Sacked by Al-Nassr after a troubled relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo and lasting just 16 games in charge of Napoli, the Frenchman spent nearly two years out the game before taking over Belgium in January, stripping Kevin De Bruyne of the captaincy and being held to draws with North Macedonia and Kazakhstan.
Player to watch: Jeremy Doku. the Manchester City winger is just as thrilling and important for his country as he is for Pep Guardiola in the Premier League. The most dazzling dribbler on the planet scored five goals and set up three more during Belgium’s qualification campaign.
Why you should tune in to watch them: Because you get to see the remaining members of Belgium’s ‘golden generation’ like De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku and Thibaut Courtois perform together on the world stage for what is surely the final time.
James Sharpe
Brazil
FIFA rank: 5
World Cups participated in: 22 (1930, 1934, 1938, 1950, 1954, 1958, 1962, 1966, 1970, 1974, 1978, 1982, 1986, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022).
World Cups won: Five (1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, 2002).
Manager: Carlo Ancelotti. ‘Don Carlo’ has won it all at club level, with league titles in all five of the big European leagues plus five Champions Leagues. But now he is at Brazil and tasked with winning their first World Cup since 2002. The squad isn’t as high-quality as yesteryear.
Player to watch: Vinicius Jr. The old boy Neymar is still knocking about but Vinicius Jr is the main man now, with Barcelona’s Raphinha also up there. Vinicius and Ancelotti had a brilliant marriage in Madrid but can he be the man to lead Brazil back to glory?
Why you should tune in to watch them: What a silly question, this is Brazil we’re talking about. Playing like Brazil is still the gold standard for teams and there is a reason for that.
Lewis Steele
Canada
FIFA rank: 28
World Cups participated in: Two – 1986 and 2022
World Cup wins: None
Manager: Jesse Marsch. The former Leeds boss led Canada to a Copa America semi-final and their highest world ranking at 26. He snapped at a journalist in the summer who asked if Canada had a ‘Plan B’ beyond pressing, before they were dumped out of the Gold Cup by Guatemala.
Player to watch: Alphonso Davies. The Bayern Munich full back and Canada captain is unquestionably the marquee name in the squad. Whether he can deliver will depend greatly on his continued recovery from an ACL injury.
Why you should tune in to watch them: Can the home nation factor help Canada after their World Cup return in 2022 proved disappointing with three straight defeats? Marsch has forward options to call upon in Juventus forward Jonathan David and Promise David (unrelated), who has impressed in Belgium.
Michael Pavitt
Colombia
FIFA rank: 13
World Cups participated in: 6 (1962, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2014, 2018)
World Cup wins: 0
Manager: Nestor Lorenzo. a man who made his name in Italy, Argentina… and Swindon – playing a handful of games for the now-League Two side between 1990 and 1992. Led the side to a 28-game unbeaten run last year, and lost the Copa America only on penalties.
Player to watch: Luis Diaz. The former Liverpool winger has taken to life at Bayern Munich like a duck to water, arguably stepping up his game next to Harry Kane, and will be hoping to take that form into the World Cup. Crystal Palace’s flying wing back Daniel Munoz is a close second.
Why you should tune in to watch them: The darlings of the 2014 tournament and one of England’s nemeses in 2018 before failing to qualify four years ago. Now well on the up, though, and could be a lot of people’s picks for dark horses of the competition.
Lewis Browning
Cape Verde
FIFA rank: 71
World Cups participated in: None
World Cup wins: 0
Manager: Bubista. Sharing a name with one of Cape Verde’s islands, Bubista has defied the odds since taking the reins in 2020. He’ll hope to enjoy this more than their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final run, when he missed two games stuck in his hotel room after contracting Covid-19.
Player to watch: Pico Lopes. Born in Dublin with a Cape Verdean father, the Shamrock Rovers skipper initially ignored a LinkedIn message in Portuguese from former national team boss Rui Aguas – until they contacted him again in English nine months later!
Why you should tune in to watch them: They’re the third-smallest nation to ever reach the World Cup with a population of 525,000 but bring shedloads of enthusiasm. There’s talk of a Netflix documentary and as they beat Eswatini 3-0 to qualify, even the crowd-control police were whipping the fans into a frenzy.
Luke Power
Croatia
FIFA rank: 11
World Cups participated in: Six (1998, 2002, 2006, 2014, 2018, 2022)
World Cup wins: None
Manager: Zlatko Dalic. Having overseen the golden age of Croatian football, including a runners-up medal and a third-placed finish at the last two editions, Zlatko Dalic has etched his name into the hearts of many Croats. Unnervingly frank, Dalic delivered a memorable jab at England during the last Euros when he pointed out that his side had been more successful than the Three Lions: ‘We have won three medals, England won one (more than) 50 years ago but they are a great team, we are not, we are always the dark horse.’ Fair enough.
Player to watch: Luka Modric. Because who else could it possibly be? The greatest Croatian footballer of all time is now 40, yet if you listen to his manager, he’ll remain involved until he needs a Zimmer frame… and perhaps even beyond that. Now playing for AC Milan, the 194-cap maestro continues to post elite numbers in Serie A’s passing and set-piece metrics, showing no signs of slowing down.
Why you should tune in to watch them: Because who doesn’t want to witness a group of ageing superstars still dictating games at the highest level? Modric and Ivan Perisic are a combined 76 years old, and while Croatia have struggled to phase out their icons, they still offer infinitely more entertainment than watching actual has-beens lumber around in Sunday League sides, as seems to be our current odd obsession.
Tara Anson-Walsh
Curacao
FIFA rank: 82
World Cups participated in: None
World Cup wins: None
Manager: Dick Advocaat. The Dutchman is set to become the oldest manager in World Cup history aged 78, breaking the record by seven years. Advocaat will coach at a major tournament for a fourth straight decade, after leading the Netherlands to the last eight at USA 94, South Korea at the 2006 World Cup and Russia at Euro 2012.
Player to watch: Leandro Bacuna. The former Aston Villa midfielder, now 34, is captain of the national team and their most recognisable player. Bacuna, whose younger brother Juninho is also in the squad, is currently playing in the Turkish second tier after spells with Cardiff, Watford and Reading.
Why you should tune in to watch them: Curacao will become the smallest nation by population to participate at the World Cup, breaking Iceland’s record. The Caribbean island, which has a population of around 150,000 are a self-governing part of the Netherlands. Only Sheffield United’s Tahith Chong was born on Curacao, with the rest of the squad Dutch-born.
Michael Pavitt
Ecuador
FIFA rank: 23
World Cups participated in: 4 (2002, 2006, 2014 and 2022)
World Cup wins: 0
Manager: Sebastian Beccacece. Appointed in August 2024, the Argentine coach has transformed Ecuador into one of South America’s toughest sides, guiding them to second in qualifying through discipline, organisation and a sharp counter-attacking style rooted in his Jorge Sampaoli-inspired intensity.
Player to watch: Moises Caicedo. An obvious choice. The 24-year-old is among the best midfielders in the world, vital for both Chelsea and Ecuador. Tenacious, composed and tireless, he anchors everything this side does, setting the tone in every battle.
Why you should tune in to watch them: Defensively stubborn and lightning on the break, Ecuador have turned resilience into an art form. Their athleticism, discipline and fast transitions make them the kind of underdog no favourite wants to face. Expect a couple of upsets.
Tum Balogun
Egypt
FIFA rank: 32
World Cups participated in: Three (1934, 1990, 2018)
World Cup wins: 0
Manager: Hossam Hassan. Egypt’s all-time top scorer but still doesn’t get close to our player to watch in terms of status. Still an African legend, though, and an absolute journeyman – as a player and manager – who took charge in February 2024.
Player to watch: Mohamed Salah. Needs no introduction. Quite good at football. Hasn’t been himself this year, but he is even more important to Egypt than he is Liverpool and is genuinely the Egyptian King in the country.
Why you should tune in to watch them: They are Africa’s oldest football team, having been created to compete in the 1920 Olympics. There is also the chance we could witness the birth of a new national hero in Hamza Abdel-Karim, who has been branded ‘the new Salah’ – with teams in Europe watching him closely.
Lewis Browning
England
FIFA rank: 4th
World Cups participated in: 16 (1950, 1954, 1958, 1962, 1966, 1970, 1982, 1986, 1990, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022)
World Cup wins: One (1966)
Manager: Thomas Tuchel. Brought in to do a job and that is deliver a first piece of men’s senior silverware since 1966. The German is the perfect man for the job in that respect: he cares little about perception.
Player to watch: Jude Bellingham. Who else? Bellingham can be divisive but also decisive and if the mission is to do all it takes to win the World Cup then the Real Madrid star has to turn up.
Why you should tune in to watch them: Attacking talent in abundance – almost too much, to butcher a cliche – and there will be a fascination around how Tuchel can coax the best from those behind a drifting Harry Kane.
Jack Gaughan
France
FIFA rank: 3rd
World Cups participated in: 16 (1930, 1934, 1938, 1954, 1958, 1966, 1978, 1982, 1986, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022)
World Cup wins: Two (1998, 2018)
Manager: Didier Deschamps. Appointed in 2012, now France’s longest-serving post-war coach ahead of Michel Hidalgo. Stepping down at the end of the tournament and has been criticised by supporters.
Player to watch: Michael Olise. The former Crystal Palace winger has been electrifying for Bayern Munich under Vincent Kompany and should take on a prominent attacking role in North America.
Why you should tune in to watch them: It’s the flair. Other than Olise there is: Kylian Mbappe, Bradley Barcola, Manu Kone, Kingsley Coman, Maghnes Akliouche, Ousmane Dembele and Rayan Cherki. Plus Hugo Ekitike and Marcus Thuram as options up front. Scary. Oh, and we may get a flamboyant outfit or two…
Jack Gaughan
Germany
FIFA rank: 9th
World Cups participated in: 20 (1934, 1938, 1954, 1958, 1962, 1966, 1970, 1974, 1978, 1982, 1986, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022)
World Cup wins: Four (1954, 1974, 1990, 2014)
Manager: Julian Nagelsmann. There is an acceptance that Germany are going through something of a transition and Nagelsmann’s style of play has bought him credit. Signed a new deal until 2028.
Player to watch: Oliver Baumann. The goalkeeper will be 36 by the time the tournament starts – a whipper snapper compared to his predecessor, Manuel Neuer (38). Didn’t make his debut until 2024 and looks likely to wear the gloves over Marc-Andre ter Stegen, a mere junior at 34.
Why you should tune in to watch them: There is a little bit of unpredictability around Germany. Most of the household names have moved on and it’s whether the likes of Florian Wirtz and Leroy Sane can properly carry the attacking threat.
Jack Gaughan
Ghana
FIFA rank: 72
World Cups participated in: Four (2006, 2010, 2014, 2022)
World Cups won: None
Manager: Otto Addo. Resigned after the 2022 World Cup saying his family saw their future in Germany… only to rejoin three months later! A resilient character, he has continued managing since a car crash last year and refused to budge after failing to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations. Jurgen Klopp was one of his mentors and he coached Erling Haaland at Borussia Dortmund.
Player(s) to watch: Andre and Jordan Ayew. Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo is the obvious choice, but how about the Ayew brothers? Andre and Jordan are the most-capped stars for their nation, have both served eras as the captain (Jordan’s is ongoing), and declared that ‘together, we are stronger.’ This could be their last major tournament together.
Why you should tune in to watch them: They could well match their famous quarter-final run of 2010. Just listen to the names in this squad: Semenyo, Ayew, Ayew, Mohammed Kudus, Inaki Williams, Thomas Partey, Mohammed Salisu, Tariq Lamptey, Brandon Thomas-Asante, Abdul Fatawu, and Kamaldeen Sulemana. Some serious talent and balance.
Luke Power
Haiti
FIFA rank: 84
World Cups participated in: One (1974)
World Cups won: None
Manager: Sebastien Migne. The Frenchman led Haiti to their second World Cup despite having never stepped foot in the nation, due to ongoing civil unrest. Migne has previously managed Congo, Kenya and Equatorial Guinea, while he served as Cameroon’s assistant manager at Qatar 2022. Migne’s best friend Sebastien Desabre is aiming to join him at the World Cup as DR Congo boss.
Player to watch: Duckens Nazon. Haiti’s record goalscorer boasts clubs in India, Bulgaria and now Iran on his CV, as well as brief spells in England at Wolves, Coventry and Oldham. Nazon scored a second half hat-trick in a crucial qualifier against Costa Rica. His place could come under threat if Haiti succeed in an attempt to convince Sunderland’s Wilson Isidor to represent the nation.
Why you should tune in to watch them: Haiti are likely to need all the support they can get at the World Cup, not least because they are one of the tournament minnows. As it stands, their fans are subject to a US travel ban meaning only their population already residing in the US will be about to attend matches.
Michael Pavitt
Iran
FIFA rank: 20
World Cups participated in: 6 (1978, 1998, 2006, 2014, 2018, 2022)
World Cups won: 0
Manager: Amir Ghalenoei. An experienced manager in the Middle East who also played for Iran as a player, Ghalenoei was appointed as his home country’s head coach in 2023. The 62-year-old will be raring to go next summer after missing out on the opportunity to manage at a World Cup during his first stint in charge between 2006 and 2007.
Player to watch: Mehdi Taremi. The third top-scorer in his country’s history, Taremi is also the first ever Iranian player to don the iconic blue and black stripes of Inter Milan. Ninety-one goals in 182 Porto games earned him a move to the Italian giants, where he followed in the footsteps of idol, Ronaldo Nazario. Now plies his trade in Greece with Olympiacos.
Why you should tune in to watch them: Iran are far from pushovers. At the Qatar World Cup of 2022, they overcame a Wales side including Gareth Bale with a 2-0 victory in the group stage. Surprisingly, they sit as high as 20th in the FIFA World Rankings.
Gethin Hicks
Japan
FIFA rank: 19
World Cups participated in: 7 (1998, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022)
World Cup wins: 0
Manager: Hajime Moriyasu. Led his side to the 2019 Asia Cup final and last-16 in the 2022 World Cup, but has been clear that his goal this time around is to win the trophy. Potentially a tad ambitious. A well-liked chap, he bowed to the fans after their exit in Qatar.
Player to watch: Kaoru Mitoma. The Brighton star is one of the most exciting attackers in the Premier League on his day and the talisman for his national side. He completed a university dissertation on dribbling – and it shows.
Why you should tune in to watch them: Their side features a number of Premier League stars past and present including Mitoma, Wataru Endo and Takumi Minamino and have a surprise in their locker, as shown in 2022 when they beat Germany and Spain.
Lewis Browning
Jordan
FIFA rank: 66
World Cups participated in: None
World Cup wins: 0
Manager: Jamal Sallami. Just listen to Jordan’s fans chanting his name. The popular Moroccan insists there are no ‘small teams’. He’s been preparing for this since childhood, literally; as a kid, he would coach the other youths in his neigbourhood, and he has a point to prove after he played in Morocco’s close-run group stage exit in 1998.
Player to watch: Yazan Al-Naimat. The forward is the only Jordanian to ever score in a major tournament final, netting as they lost 3-1 to Qatar at the last hurdle in 2023. Expect a fiery temper – after that game, he blasted the referee for awarding three penalties to the victors.
Why you should tune in to watch them: Jordan’s qualification is the long-awaited fulfilment of a prophecy by Harry Redknapp. He took charge of two games in 2016 and after beating Bangladesh 8-0 in his first, declared: ‘Jordan football, the future is good.’ Presumably he was looking further ahead than their 5-1 defeat to Australia a week later.
Luke Power
Ivory Coast
FIFA rank: 42
World Cups participated in: Three (2006, 2010, 2014)
World Cup wins: 0
Manager: Emerse Fae. Famously led the Ivory Coast to home AFCON success in 2023 having taken interim charge following a disastrous group stage. The former Reading player will be the first Ivorian to coach his national team at the World Cup.
Player to watch: Franck Kessie. The former Barcelona midfielder has played in Saudi Arabia for the past two seasons, but remains crucial to the national side. Kessie, who is approaching 100 caps, is the main leader for the Ivory Coast.
Why you should tune in to watch them: Ivory Coast did not concede a goal in their 10 qualifying matches, but they should pose a threat going forwards with Amad Diallo, Simon Adingra, Sebastien Haller and Evann Guessand among their attacking options.
Michael Pavitt
Mexico
FIFA rank: 14
World Cups participated in: 17 (1930, 1950-1966, 1970 [host], 1978, 1986 [host], 1994-2022)
World Cup wins: None
Manager: Javier Aguirre. Since Qatar, Mexico have fired three managers before arriving at Aguirre. Fans of ‘El Tri’ aren’t too fond of him either as Mexico yearn for redemption. He’s already had two stints with them, reaching the last 16 in 2002 and 2010, and this is the journeyman’s 15th gig.
Player to watch: Raul Jimenez. The Fulham striker was Mexico’s talisman at the Gold Cup and the CONCACAF Nations League, both of which they won. He’ll be expected to score frequently next summer as well. Known to some as ‘the Wolf of Tepeji’, his hometown, he still sports a scar from when a crossbar fell on his head as a kid.
Why you should tune in to watch them: Passion and pageantry will define Mexico’s home-field advantage. But they’ve largely struggled against non-CONCACAF sides in the last two years and the crowd may turn quick if they can’t succeed.
Jake Fenner
Morocco
FIFA rank: 12th
World Cups participated in: Six (1970, 1986, 1994, 1998, 2018, 2022)
World Cups won: None
Manager: Walid Regragui. A right-back for the national team in his playing days, Regragui has presided over incredible success since taking the hotseat in August 2022. Demanding an explosive, counter-attacking brand of football, he led them to the semi-final of the 2022 World Cup – knocking out Spain and Portugal in the process.
Player to watch: Hamza Igamane. While Morocco are blessed with some exceptional defenders such as PSG star Achraf Hakimi, former Rangers man Igamane is garnering plaudits after an impressive start to life in France with LOSC Lille. The 23-year-old already has two goals in five games for his country and, sharing the striker berth with the prolific Youssef En-Nesyri, could flourish at the World Cup.
Why you should tune in to watch them: While unlikely to go deeper in the tournament than their mighty performance in Qatar, Morocco promise, energy, excitement – and most importantly – goals. They may also come into the tournament as AFCON champions having already been mooted as early favourites.
Ciaran Foreman
Netherlands
FIFA rank: 7
World Cups participated in: 11 (1934, 1938, 1974, 1978, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2022).
World Cup wins: none.
Manager: Ronald Koeman. The former Barcelona star is now in his second stint in charge of the Netherlands and takes charge of a team full of talent, especially with a solid defence – Virgil van Dijk, Micky van de Ven, Nathan Ake, Matthijs de Ligt, Jan Paul van Hecke to name some.
Player to watch: Virgil van Dijk. The Liverpool skipper has said this will be his last tournament. He has won the Premier League and Champions League as a player but to win the World Cup with his nation would be his greatest honour yet.
Why you should tune in to watch them: The Dutch are always exciting, right? Be it the bold orange jerseys in the crowds or their Total Football style popularised by the great Johan Cruyff, they are always a fun watch. It feels like they are a solid striker away from a really good team (their options are Memphis Depay and Brian Brobbey).
Lewis Steele
New Zealand
FIFA Rank: 86
World Cups participated in: Two (1982 and 2010)
World Cup Wins: None
Manager: Darren Bazeley. The former Watford and Wolves player is set to lead New Zealand at the World Cup, after having built an impressive CV managing the Kiwis’ U20 and U23 sides. Bazeley was born in the UK, but after moving to New Zealand with his wife and daughters, he has fallen in love with the country.
Player to watch: Chris Wood. New Zealand’s all-time leading goalscorer may have endured a difficult start to the 2025-26 campaign, but you can never write this man off. The 33-year-old is a key pillar in Sean Dyche’s side, and when fully fit, he can be one of the Premier League’s most dangerous stars.
Why you should tune in to watch them: While New Zealand might be one of the lowest-ranked teams in the competition (currently they’re the lowest), they can cause an upset – as the Ivory Coast recently found out. Yes, their 2025 record leaves a lot to be desired, with Bazeley’s side having only won one game out of eight. But they boast a raft of young, exciting players, including Swansea midfielder Marko Stamenic, who aren’t afraid to run at teams.
Ed Carruthers
Norway
FIFA rank: 29
World Cups participated in: 3 (1938, 1994, 1998).
World Cup wins: none.
Manager: Stale Solbakken. They are excited in Norway and rightly so because this is a golden generation. But take nothing away from the manager for overseeing a perfect qualifying campaign of eight wins from eight with 37 goals. The former Wolves and Copenhagen boss has the Norwegians dreaming of a special campaign on their first appearance since 1998.
Player to watch: Erling Haaland. He has 55 goals in 48 international appearances, which is a bonkers statistic in itself. This will be his World Cup debut but the Manchester City star will be one of the poster boys.
Why you should tune in to watch them: They are not a one-man band and have a genuine chance of doing well if the draw is kind to them. It’s not just Haaland, think also Martin Odegaard, Alexander Sorloth, Sander Berge, Oscar Bobb, Kristoffer Ajer.
Lewis Steele
Panama
FIFA ranking: 31
World Cups participated in: 1 (2018)
World Cup wins: None
Manager: Thomas Christiansen. Panama’s social media-savvy gaffer – who posts as much about his wife as he does the national team – is now a hero. The former Leeds boss led Panama to the 2023 Gold Cup final and now hopes to secure their first-ever World Cup points.
Player to watch: Anibal Godoy. Their captain is their most-capped player with 144 appearances and an MLS veteran. Last year the midfielder got into a heated bust-up with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez – but we’ve come to expect those antics from Panama’s hard-nosed stars.
Why you should tune in to watch them: They are, at times, comically dirty. You might remember them for giving away two penalties in their 6-1 thrashing by England at the 2018 World Cup. That was no blip. Last year, beating the USA 2-1 at the Copa America, they committed 19 fouls and had a man sent off. Your average Premier League team commits around 10 per game. Wild.
Luke Power
Paraguay
FIFA rank: 39
World Cups participated in: 8 (1930, 1950, 1958, 1986, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2010)
World Cup wins: None
Manager: Gustavo Alfaro. An experienced journeyman, Argentina-born Alfaro has enjoyed a 30-year career as a manager taking him to clubs across the globe. He’s notably coached Al-Ahli of Saudi Arabia, South American giants Boca Juniors and more recently the Ecuador and Costa Rica national teams.
Player to watch: Diego Gomez. Though the former Inter Miami and Libertad midfielder is yet to fully establish himself in Brighton’s starting eleven on the sunny south coast, he’s shown glimpses of his undoubted quality. You may recall him netting four goals – all of which were sensational – on a freezing night in Barnsley back in September. If he gets anywhere near those levels on his return to the States, Gomez will be a key part of Paraguay’s campaign.
Why you should tune in to watch them: Having pulled off extraordinary victories against both Uruguay and Argentina during qualifying, the Paraguayans could be this summer’s dark horses. They boast Premier League-experienced talent in Miguel Almiron, Julio Enciso and Diego Gomez and, competing in their first World Cup for some 15 years, will be raring to go.
Gethin Hicks
Portugal
FIFA rank: 6
World Cups participated in: 8 (1966, 1986, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022).
World Cup wins: none.
Manager: Roberto Martinez. The former Everton, Wigan and Swansea boss is now an experienced international coach after six years with Belgium overseeing their so-called golden generation. He has a similar task on his hands with Portugal. For a small nation, they are punching above their weight and then some.
Player to watch: Cristiano Ronaldo. We really wanted to go with Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha or Nuno Mendes here… but the 40-year-old is SURELY set to play his last tournament. He is the one the cameras are always pointed at. He has won the European Championship… can he win the World Cup too?
Why you should tune in to watch them: After triumphing in the Nations League this summer, Portugal would be a good bet to win the World Cup too. They have a balanced squad full of big names that are hard-working, too. They are also united in wanting to win for their old mate, Diogo Jota.
Lewis Steele
Qatar
FIFA rank: 52
World Cups participated in: One (2022)
World Cups won: None
Manager: Julen Lopetegui. Back on the World Cup stage having been sacked as Spain boss on the eve of the 2018 tournament after he announced he would take over at Real Madrid. Lopetegui took charge in May, with Qatar edging through a fourth round group with Oman and the UAE to qualify.
Player to watch: Almoez Ali. The Sudan-born forward is Qatar’s all-time record goalscorer with 60 and topped the scoring charts in Asian World Cup qualifying with 12 goals. Ali is the only footballer to score in three different intercontinental events, the Asian Cup, Copa America and the Gold Cup.
Why you should tune in to watch them: Qatar became the first host nation to be knocked out after two games in 2022, going on to lose all three of their group matches. Having qualified by right for the first time, can they make an impression in an expanded World Cup?
Michael Pavitt
Saudi Arabia
FIFA rank: 58
World Cups participated in: Six (1994, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2018, 2022)
World Cup wins: None
Manager: Herve Renard. When Roberto Mancini left his role bemoaning the impact of foreign signings on the national team, Saudi Arabia were at risk of failing to qualify. Saudi Arabia brought back Renard, who masterminded their Qatar 2022 group stage win over eventual winners Argentina, and the Frenchman delivered qualification.
Player to watch: Salem Al-Dawsari. The 34-year-old was named AFC Player of the Year for the season time in October after top scoring in last season’s Asian Champions League, outscoring Cristiano Ronaldo. Scored their famous winner against Argentina in 2022.
Why you should tune in to watch them: Saudi Arabia have once reached the World Cup knock-out stage, which came back at USA 1994. Having edged through a fourth round qualifier against Iraq and Indonesia, a repeat seems unlikely. As future World Cup hosts, there will be more scrutiny on how competitive Saudi Arabia are.
Michael Pavitt
Senegal
FIFA rank: 18
World Cups participated in: Three (2002, 2018, 2022)
World Cups won: None
Manager: Pape Thiaw. The former striker made one appearance at the World Cup, coming off the bench to set up Senegal’s golden goal to take them into the quarter-finals on debut back in 2002. Having won the African Nations Championship he became Aliou Cisse’s assistant manager, before succeeding him in 2024.
Player to watch: Iliman Ndiaye. Sadio Mane has long been Senegal’s talisman and was their top scorer in qualifying, but Ndiaye could be ready to take over the mantle. His Everton and Senegal team-mate Idrissa Gana Gueye claims the winger has the talent to one day win the Ballon d’Or.
Why you should tune in to watch them: Thiaw has placed an emphasis on attacking football and can call upon the likes of Mane, Ndiaye, Ismaila Sarr and Nicolas Jackson. Pape Sarr also chipped in with four goals in qualifying. Their threat was shown when Senegal became the first African nation to beat England back in June.
Michael Pavitt
Scotland
FIFA rank: 36
World Cups participated in: 8 (1954, 1958, 1974, 1978, 1982, 1986, 1990, 1998).
World Cup wins: none.
Manager: Steve Clarke. The 62-year-old deserves a statue outside Hampden Park for the way he has steered Scotland to multiple major tournaments and now their first World Cup in a generation. Now the big goal is to qualify for the knockout stage…
Player to watch: Scott McTominay. Remember that lanky old kid who was always OK but never great at Manchester United? He is now the toast of Naples, the city once popularised by Diego Maradona, and the Serie A winner and Ballon d’Or nominee is hoping to lead Scotland to their most historic tournament yet.
Why you should tune in to watch them: The Tartan Army. The best thing about the World Cup, sometimes, is the culture and colour of the travelling fans. It is always great to see the Tartan Army in their numbers at these tournaments… but they have ultimately always gone home in tears. Clarke has given them belief that this time could be different.
Lewis Steele
South Africa
FIFA rank: 59
World Cups participated in: Three (1998, 2002 and 2010)
World Cup wins: 0
Manager: Hugo Broos. The name might sound like knock-off Hugo Boss gear but the manager is anything but a pretender. He’s known for his ability to nurture young talent as well as a bold tactical approach, impressively leading Cameroon to the title back in 2017.
Player to watch: Lyle Foster. There are a few cultural differences between South Africa and Burnley… but the striker has proven himself to be the nation’s biggest footballing export in recent years.
Why you should tune in: Everyone loves vuvuzela-induced tinnitus, right? The Bafana Bafana always bring incredible colour, energy and support and they should be great value again – maybe just on mute.
Will Griffee
South Korea
FIFA rank: 22
World Cups played in: 11 (1954, 1986, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022)
World Cups won: None
Manager: Hong Myung-bo. Won FIFA’s Bronze Ball after helping the co-hosts finish fourth in 2002, his fourth and final World Cup as a player. Made Pele’s list of top 100 living footballers in 2004. The former defender will manage South Korea at a second World Cup after 2014, while he was an assistant back in 2006.
Played to watch: Son Heung-min. Undoubtedly South Korea’s talisman and their biggest goalscoring threat. The former Tottenham star, now 33, will likely be looking at his last big chance to shine at the World Cup and has a growing profile in the US after his move to LA FC. Although he was awkwardly mistaken for a US national team player by one politician…
Why you should tune in to watch them: South Korea have won just two matches in their last three World Cup appearances, but they have proved good value for upsets. Those wins came against Germany (2018) and Portugal (2022) in the group stage.
Michael Pavitt
Switzerland
FIFA rank: 17
World Cups participated in: 12 (1934, 1938, 1950, 1954, 1962, 1966, 1994, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022)
World Cup wins: 0
Manager: Murat Yakin. Appointed in 2021, the Basel-born boss is preparing for his third major tournament in charge of Switzerland, having led them to the last-16 at the 2022 World Cup and quarter-finals at Euro 2024, where they lost in a penalty shootout to England. He’s so popular in his homeland that he was once even asked about being a ‘sex symbol’. His reply? ‘I hope my wife isn’t listening…’
Player to watch: Granit Xhaka. Participating in his fourth World Cup next summer, Xhaka heads to North America as one of the most experienced midfielders on show. Since captaining the Swiss in Qatar, the 33-year-old veteran has aged like a fine wine, going undefeated with Bayer Leverkusen in 2024 and impressing during his first few months at Sunderland so far this season.
Why you should tune in to watch them: Gearing up for a sixth successive World Cup appearance, Switzerland have established themselves as tournament regulars since 2006. Having knocked out defending champions Italy at the last Euros, the Swiss have shown they are more than capable of pulling of an upset under Yakin and are usually good value for entertainment.
Ben Willcocks
United States
FIFA rank: 16
World Cups participated in: 11 (1930, 1934, 1950, 1990, 1994 [host], 1998-2014, 2022)
World Cup wins: None
Manager: Mauricio Pochettino. The most ambitious hire in the history of the USMNT, the former Tottenham, PSG, and Chelsea manager is only just now gaining momentum with this team. His ambition is to go all the way. ‘For me, it’s about winning,’ he said. ‘I think if you don’t win, what does it matter? If you are second, nobody ever remembers.’
Player to watch: Christian Pulisic. Boring pick? Maybe. But the ex-Chelsea winger had his best-ever season last year at AC Milan and could be in a purple patch of form come next summer. Away from football, he’s a fan of chess (he once played Magnus Carlsen), golf, and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
Why you should tune in to watch them: Beyond the politics of hosting, the US flagged this tournament for years as their moment to prove they deserve respect on the global football stage. The success or ‘schadenfreude’ alone is worth the watch.
Jake Fenner
Uruguay
FIFA rank: 15
World Cups participated in: 14 (1930, 1950, 1954, 1962, 1966, 1970, 1974, 1986, 1990, 2002, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022)
World Cup wins: 2 (1930, 1950)
Manager: Marcelo Bielsa. Bielsa needs little introduction to Premier League viewers. His Leeds United side was utterly chaotic but undoubtedly entertaining – and you can guarantee the Argentinian mastermind won’t compromise his methods in North America this summer.
Player to watch: Federico Valverde. Captain of the world’s biggest club in Real Madrid, the ever-dependable Valverde has it all. With an eye for goal but also an engine in midfield few can match, if Uruguay go far this summer, expect the Galactico to be at the centre of their success.
Why you should tune in watch them: Though in bygone World Cups the Uruguayans have been rugged and hard to break down, that could change this summer. Bielsa won’t sit back and absorb pressure and, with the likes of Darwin Nunez and Valverde at his disposal, has plenty of talent to work with.
Gethin Hicks
Uzbekistan
FIFA rank: 55
World Cups participated in: None
World Cup wins: 0
Manager: Fabio Cannavaro. The legendary Italy captain was only appointed in October after Timur Kapadze, who secured qualification, stepped down. This is his ninth job in 11 years and the last four gigs have not gone to plan.
Player to watch: Eldor Shomurodov. The striker is his country’s captain and all-time leading goalscorer. Nicknamed the ‘Uzbek Messi,’ he’s a keen Rivaldo fan, history buff, and has liked Chelsea ever since a chance encounter with Jose Mourinho in a Moscow restaurant.
Why you should tune in to watch them: Uzbekistan will roll up to their first World Cup as big underdogs, but they’re not nobodies after near misses for the 2006 and 2018 editions. Manchester City fans will be cheering on Abdukodir Khusanov, a defender for the first double-landlocked nation to reach the finals.
Luke Power
