With the 2026 World Cup set to expand to 48 teams, the tournament is preparing to kick off in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.. While many nations hope for an upset, a small group of elite teams remains the primary focus of the title race.

The 50% surge to 48 competing nations

The 2026 World Cup is set to be the largest iteration of the tournament in history, featuring a 50% increase in the number of participating teams.. This expansion means 48 nations will compete across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, fundamentally changing the tournament's landscape. While the sheer number of participants increases the likelihood of underdog stories and nations that are "just happy to be here," the report suggests that only about a dozen teams are truly expected to vie for the championship trophy. This creates a tournament of two halves: a massive field of hopefuls and a tiny, elite group of true contenders.

Argentina's pursuit of a feat not seen since Brazil in 1962

Argentina enters the tournament as the defending champion, aiming to become the first team to secure back-to-back titles since Brazil's victory in 1962. Although the age of Lionel Messi is a point of discussion, the squad is noted for having sufficient depth to sustain a strong title defense. In contrast, Spain arrives as the 2024 EURO winner, possessing what many consider the highest floor of any team in the tournament. According to the report , Spain is expected to cruise into the round of 16, where they may face high-stakes matchups against sides like Colombia or Croatia.

Who will anchor England's defense and France's offense?

Several heavyweights are entering the tournament with significant tactical unknowns. For England, the appointment of new coach Thomas Tuchel signals a shift toward a more attack-minded philosophy, yet the squad remains vulnerable in the back. Beyond Marc Guéhi, there are serious questions regarding who will provide stability in the center-back position. France faces a different dilemma; as the 2018 winner and 2022 runner-up, they have the talent to reach the quarterfinals easily, but the report raises questions about whether Didier Deschamps will fully utilize his offensive talent during what may be his final tournament .

The midfield and versatility dilemma for Brazil and Portugal

The physical and tactical demands of a month-long tournament may prove difficult for teams relying on aging stars or rigid tactical setups. Brazil, despite being a top contender, faces a potential crisis in the center of the pitch. the aging presence of Casemiro and Fabinho may not be enough to link the defense to a potent attack over the course of the competition, leaving the team's structure vulnerable. Portugal faces a different tactical hurdle; while Bruno Fernandes provides significant power, the report notes that the team's overall versatility is often reduced when Cristiano Ronaldo is on the pitch, presenting a challenge for coaches looking to adapt to different match scenarios.