CONMEBOL
Top 10 World Cup 2026 Stars — No.9: Raphinha, Brazil's most complete player and the one they cannot afford to lose 34 goals, 22 assists, 57 appearances for Barcelona. That is not a winger having a good season. That is one of the best attacking seasons any wide
Spain
Everyone watches Lamine Yamal. Pedri is the reason the system works. Spain's midfield metronome is 23 years old and has already played two major tournaments. At this one he is the engine behind the favourites. The conversation about Spain always starts with Yamal. It should — Yamal is extraordinary
World Cup 2026
Pau Cubarsí is 19 years old and is already Spain's first-choice centre-back. The Barcelona defender plays with a composure and tactical intelligence that makes opponents — and analysts — do a double take at his age. He is the best young defender at this tournament. It is not close.
World Cup 2026
Ten players who won't make World Cup 2026 due to injury. Rodrygo, Xavi Simons, Estêvão and more — and what their absence means tactically.
Team Profile
New Zealand are OFC's representative at World Cup 2026. They know the gap is significant. They also know they have closed it more than anyone expected.
Team Profile
Panama are at their second World Cup. The 2018 tournament made them famous for all the wrong reasons. In 2026 they intend to be remembered differently.
Team Profile
Cape Verde are a nation of 600,000 people at a World Cup alongside Spain and Uruguay. They have been defying expectations for a decade. Group H should be very afraid.
Team Profile
DR Congo reached the World Cup through the intercontinental play-offs. They are Africa's most populous nation and one of its most talent-rich. The wait since 1974 is over.
Team Profile
Tunisia are at their third consecutive World Cup. They are African football's most reliable qualifier. They are also one of the most tactically disciplined sides in Group F.
Team Profile
Algeria missed the 2022 World Cup entirely. In 2026 they return with Riyad Mahrez leading them into a group that includes defending champions Argentina.
Team Profile
Scotland are back at a World Cup for the first time since 1998. They earned it in the most dramatic fashion imaginable. Now comes the harder part.
Brazil have not won the World Cup since 2002. For a nation that defines itself through football, that wait has become unbearable. In 2026 they have the squad to end it.