In Group F, the Netherlands are favorites but face injury woes. Japan and Sweden battle for second spot, with Tunisia as a dangerous wild card. A tight race with knockout implications.

Didier Deschamps, with 14 World Cup wins as France manager, needs just three more to break Helmut Schön's all-time record of 16. A deep run in 2026 would cement his legacy, as France, led by Mbappé, remains a top contender despite a recent warm-up loss to Ivory Coast.

Portugal will use a fixed US base camp for the 2026 World Cup to reduce travel fatigue for 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo, manager Roberto Martinez explains. The squad and Ronaldo support the science-driven approach aimed at maximizing recovery and performance.

The 2026 World Cup expands to 48 teams, featuring debutants Cape Verde, Curaçao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan. Argentina, France, Spain, and Brazil lead the favorites, while off-field politics and travel logistics add complexity.

Group C features Brazil, Morocco, Scotland, and Haiti. Brazil's Neymar injury concerns shift focus to Vinicius Junior, while Morocco aims to top the group after their 2022 semi-final run. Scotland's McTominay and Haiti add unpredictability.

Group I features France, Norway, and Senegal in a high-stakes collision. Can a 48-team World Cup produce a group of death? Yes, says The Independent, as this trio promises tension from the opening match.

England aim to end 60 years of hurt in Group L, facing Croatia, Ghana, and Panama. Thomas Tuchel leads the Three Lions, with Croatia's ageing stars, Ghana's turmoil, and Panama's resilience shaping a tricky path to the knockout stages.

Co-hosts USA head Group D at World Cup 2026, but just 18 ranking spots separate them from Turkey, Australia and Paraguay. Pochettino leads USMNT under home pressure in a fiercely competitive group.

Rodri puts Man City contract talks on hold until after 2026 World Cup. The Ballon d'Or winner has one year left, with Real Madrid circling. Injury return adds complexity.

Australia's 26-man World Cup squad blends veterans like Mathew Ryan and Harry Souttar with emerging talent. Drawn in Group D with USA, Turkey, and Paraguay, the Socceroos aim to build on their 2022 round of 16 run.

Scotland's World Cup prep hit as Gilmour out with knee injury. Clarke calls up Man Utd teenager as replacement, mixing concern and opportunity.