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On Thursday 11th June, the FIFA World Cup returns and this year’s tournament promises to be like no other. Hosted across the USA, Canada and Mexico, the 2026 World Cup will be the largest in history, featuring 48 nations competing across 104 matches in over five weeks of football.
With new teams, new stars and plenty of familiar faces, there will be no shortage of excitement as the world’s biggest sporting event takes centre stage once again.
A World Cup Like No Other
This year’s tournament will look a little different to previous World Cups.
For the first time ever, 48 teams will compete rather than 32, with matches spread across 16 cities. Mexico City will host the opening match before the tournament concludes with the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on 19th July.
The new format sees teams divided into 12 groups of four. The top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-placed nations will progress into an expanded knockout phase with a round of 32.
With more teams and more matches, fans can expect a World Cup full of surprises from start to finish.
The Teams To Beat
European champions Spain head into the tournament as one of the standout contenders after an impressive few years and a squad packed with quality. Their mix of experienced players and exciting young talent has many tipping them to go all the way.
France once again possess an incredible pool of talent, with Kylian Mbappé leading an attack that is capable of testing any defence in the world. With strength throughout the squad and tournament experience, they will be sure to challenge again.
Led by Lionel Messi, defending champions Argentina will be eager to retain their crown. Having won the World Cup and back to back Copa América titles in recent years, they know exactly what it takes to succeed.
England are also among the leading contenders. Having finished runners-up at the last two European Championships and qualified for the World Cup with a perfect record, Thomas Tuchel’s team are definitely one of the favourites.
And then there is Brazil. Despite a rocky qualification, it is hard to write off the five time world champions when the World Cup comes around. With Vinicius Junior leading the attack and a squad packed with talent, history suggests Brazil always find a way to become contenders once the tournament begins.
Of course, World Cups don’t always stick to plan. Teams can come from nowhere and capture everyone’s attention, and Morocco will be hoping to build on their memorable run in Qatar. The expanded format could also provide opportunities for several underdogs to bring a few surprises of their own.
Scotland Return To The Biggest Stage
Despite playing at the World Cup five consecutive times between 1974-1990 and eight tournaments in total, it has been 28 years since Scotland last appeared at football’s biggest competition.
Scotland’s journey will begin against Haiti, before facing much tougher tests against Morocco and Brazil in Group C. With two difficult fixtures still to come, making a strong start against Haiti could be the key to progressing out of the group stage for the first time.
With players such as Scott McTominay, Andy Robertson and John McGinn, Scotland have the talent and quality to cause a few surprises this summer. Whilst the odds may not be in their favour, manager Steve Clarke has led the squad to notable success in recent years, demonstrating Scotland’s ability to compete against strong opposition.
Reaching the tournament was already a significant achievement, but Scotland will be hoping their World Cup story does not end there.
Players To Watch
Every World Cup sees the return of football’s biggest stars as well as introducing new talent and 2026 should be no different.
Arguably one of the most exciting players heading into the tournament is Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal. Already one of the most talked about players, Barcelona’s 18-year-old winger heads into his first World Cup after helping Spain win Euro 2024. Having already become the youngest to play and score at a European Championship, many believe this could be the tournament where he truly establishes himself as football’s next global superstar.
France will once again look to Kylian Mbappé to lead their attack. The French captain lifted the 2018 World Cup, scoring in that final and came agonisingly close to doing so again in 2022. Still only 27, Mbappé will be aiming to bring France back to the top.
England fans will hope Harry Kane can continue the goalscoring form that has made him his country’s all-time leading scorer. Alongside him, young midfielder Jude Bellingham, who scored at the 2022 World Cup as a teenager now arrives with even greater experience and expectations on his shoulders.
Norway’s Erling Haaland is another player to keep an eye on. One of the most prolific goalscorers, Haaland will be making his World Cup debut after helping Norway qualify for the tournament for the first time in 28 years.
Although they are now entering the latter stages of their careers, it would be impossible to overlook Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Few players in football history have delivered more memorable moments, and both will be determined to leave their mark on the tournament once again and remind fans why they remain among the greatest players the game has ever seen.
New Nations Ready To Make History
Curacao, Cape Verde, Jordan and Uzbekistan will all make their tournament debuts this summer in what will be a historic moment for each nation.
For many supporters, these underdog stories are what make the World Cup so special. Every tournament produces surprise results, unexpected heroes and nations that exceed expectations.
It will be fascinating to see whether any of the newcomers can spring a few surprises and leave a lasting impression.
New Additions To The Tournament
The 2026 World Cup is also set to introduce several new features away from the pitch.
For the first time, the final will include a dedicated halftime entertainment show, similar to the NFL Super Bowl format seen in the United States, featuring Madonna, Shakira and K-pop band BTS. The tournament will also feature scheduled hydration breaks during matches to help players cope with potentially challenging weather conditions across North America.
These changes have sparked plenty of debate among fans. Some welcome the focus on player welfare and the attempt to create an even bigger global spectacle, while others believe the World Cup should remain focused purely on the football.
It is clear this tournament will bring a different feel to previous editions.
Predictions
Predicting a World Cup winner is never easy and there is no shortage of contenders.
Argentina are looking to defend their title while France remain one of the strongest squads in world football. Alongside England and Brazil, any of these nations would be worthy winners.
However, Spain look like the strongest all-round package heading into the tournament. As the European Champions, their combination of tournament experience and both established international players and emerging young stars makes them the team to beat. If they can maintain their consistency of the past few years, they could be lifting the trophy on the 19th of July.
Of course, a moment of brilliance, a penalty shootout, a controversial decision or simple good luck can completely change the course of the tournament. Whatever happens, the next five weeks should provide plenty of unforgettable moments and world-class football.
Who do you think will lift the trophy on 19th July? Let us know on our social channels.
