The journey is almost here as 48 nations, 104 games, and four teams make their first appearance ever at the World Cup. It’s plenty to keep up with, but someone has to wade through it all in order to attempt to pick a winner. Hello there, I’m someone, and while this exercise has given me a slight disdain for third-placed teams getting through after projecting all of their placements, it’s also a good one to have on paper to see how correct or wrong I am about the fate of this tournament.

It has been 24 years since the United States have won a knockout game at the World Cup, and with this tournament happening on home soil, they’ll have a chance to end that drought with a newly minted round of 32. It’s funny that they could win a knockout stage match and still get eliminated at the same stage as 2022, but it’s about the journey, right?

But that’s enough meandering; you came for World Cup picks and World Cup picks you shall get:

Group A predictions

Matchday 1 picks
Mexico 2, South Africa 1
South Korea 1, Czechia 0

Matchday 2 picks
South Africa 1, Czechia 1
Mexico 1, South Korea 1

Matchday 3 picks
Mexico 1, Czechia 0
South Korea 2, South Africa 1

Erm, so we’re off to quite a start here as we’re going to tiebreakers to determine the winner of the first group of this exercise. You guessed it: Mexico win the group on fair play points of all things, because they matched South Korea’s results kick for kick going through the group. The host advantage is enough to propel El Tri through such a balanced group, and while Czechia are a strong side defensively, Patrik Schick alone won’t be enough to push them through. Bafana Bafana are improving rapidly, but despite having the best nickname of any of the teams in Group A, soccer-wise, they lag behind the others. 

Group B predictions

Matchday 1 picks
Canada 1, Bosnia 1
Switzerland 3, Qatar 0

Matchday 2 picks
Switzerland 1, Bosnia 0
Canada 2, Qatar 0

Matchday 3 picks
Switzerland 2, Canada 0
Qatar 1, Bosnia 1

Ravaged by injuries, Canada will be up against it as they stumble in their opening game while facing off with Bosnia and Herzegovina, but the Canucks will recover, facing a familiar foe in Qatar. Due to the AFC nation being invited to Concacaf Gold Cup play, it’s essentially as if Canada drew a team from their own federation, which is a boost to their chances. Being such an efficient team, no one will give Switzerland major trouble from this group, but if anyone slips up, Bosnia and Herzegovina will be ready to push and climb out.

Group C predictions

Matchday 1 picks
Brazil 2, Morocco 1
Scotland 2, Haiti 1

Matchday 2 picks
Morocco 2, Scotland 0
Brazil 3, Haiti 1

Matchday 3 picks
Brazil 3, Scotland 1
Morocco 2, Haiti 0

This is a closer group than it may seem, with a Brazil team looking to ride the vibes of Carlo Ancelotti as manager despite having a flawed squad, but the winner of their opening match with Morocco will be well placed to win the entire group. I have Brazil narrowly edging the Atlas Lions, but after them is where things get interesting. Haiti are a better side than you may expect, but Scott McTominay with Scotland is different gravy. He’ll do enough to ensure that Scotland have a chance at advancing, but goal difference may not be in their favor when the dust settles.

Group D predictions

Matchday 1 picks
United States 2, Paraguay 1
Turkiye 3, Australia 1

Matchday 2 picks
United States 2, Australia 0
Paraguay 1, Turkiye 1

Matchday 3 picks
United States 4, Turkiye 3
Paraguay 2, Australia 1

Yet another balanced group, the United States will play with pressure, but they also will have the benefit of familiarity with their opponents while also being able to limit travel due to their placement in Orange County, Calif. With Chris Richards back in training and entering the World Cup with Tyler Adams healthy, the USMNT will be able to survive an opening-day slug fest in order to gain control of the group. With Arda Guler, Kenan Yildiz, and Can Uzan, Turkiye boast some of the best young talent in the world, but with a suspect defense, they’re going to concede some goals, leading to a tight battle with Paraguay for second in the group.

Group E predictions

Matchday 1 picks
Germany 4, Curacao 0
Ivory Coast 0, Ecuador 0

Matchday 2 picks
Germany 2, Ivory Coast 1
Ecuador 2, Curacao 0

Matchday 3 picks
Ivory Coast 4, Curacao 1
Germany 1, Ecuador 0

With an opening day of soccer that puts on full display the difference in style of these groups, Kai Havertz and Germany will provide Curacao with an ample welcome to the big stage before defensive soccer takes center stage when Ecuador spring into action. While I don’t know where the goals will come from for La Tri, I only have them conceding one goal in group stage play. The final day of action is one that could be quite fun as Ivory Coast will need to win and hope that Ecuador lose, which will then lead to the group coming down to goal difference. With Yan Diomande and Amad Diallo, I’ll take Ivory Coast to come out on top via that method.

Group F predictions

Matchday 1 picks
Netherlands 2, Japan 2
Sweden 2, Tunisia 0

Matchday 2 picks
Netherlands 2, Sweden 1
Tunisia 1, Japan 1

Matchday 3 picks
Japan 2, Sweden 0
Netherlands 1, Tunisia 0

When a nation that didn’t win a single match in World Cup qualifying makes it to the tournament, you know that you have a quirky group, and tossing the Netherlands in only adds to it. It’s quite close between them and Japan, but not having Kaoru Mitoma at the World Cup is a blow to the Samurai Blue attack from the side that we’re used to at this level. If Sweden can score some goals via Viktor Gyokeres, things could get interesting.

Group G predictions

Matchday 1 picks
Belgium 3, Egypt 1
Iran 2, New Zealand 0

Matchday 2 picks
Belgium 2, Iran 0
Egypt 2, New Zealand 0

Matchday 3 picks
Egypt 2, Iran 2
Belgium 4, New Zealand 1

It’s not a true World Cup until Belgium seem like a side set to win the tournament right out of the group stage, and this is a perfect group for it. Egypt have a few stars like Mohamed Salah, but it’s a squad with holes. Iran have off-the-pitch noise and needs to come from Mexico for games, and New Zealand may have the star of the tournament Tim Payne, but when it comes to making things happen on the pitch, depth is a huge concern. Matchday 3 will come down to a battle between Egypt and Iran to determine second and third place, and that’ll turn out to be a coin flip.

Group H predictions

Matchday 1 picks
Spain 3, Cabo Verde 1
Uruguay 2, Saudi Arabia 0

Matchday 2 picks
Spain 2, Saudi Arabia 1
Uruguay 3, Cabo Verde 1

Matchday 3 picks
Cabo Verde 2, Saudi Arabia 2
Spain 2, Uruguay 1

This group requires some projecting. We have no clue how much Lamine Yamal will actually feature for Spain during the group stage, and that could temper their scoring. On the bright side, Spain have one of the easiest groups to get out of, and playing Uruguay on the final day of group stage play, it’s tough to see them losing that match unless Yamal’s injury is worse than anyone is letting on, which is possible. Cabo Verde are in the World Cup for the first time, and it’ll be a party in Atlanta when they score their first goal in the tournament, but that’s going to be about it. Saudi Arabia could cause some trouble, but with the strength of the teams ahead of them, trouble is the best they can do. 

Group I predictions

Matchday 1 picks
France 1, Senegal 1
Norway 3, Iraq 0

Matchday 2 picks
France 4, Iraq 1
Senegal 2, Norway 1

Matchday 3 picks
France 3, Norway 1
Senegal 1, Iraq 0

Senegal are a force to be reckoned with, and they’ll show why, limiting France’s chances in the opener. Sadio Mane still has some magic in his feet, and while Michael Olise is announcing his own stardom to the world, he’ll need to wait to face Iraq before his World Cup party begins. It’s great theater, but also a shame that Erling Haaland’s first World Cup will see him needing to navigate such a tough group but they’ll be in enough games that they may be able to nick getting through as a third-placed team set to cause nightmares in the round of 32. Third-placed teams advancing is still something to get used to, but that’s the strange new world that we live in.

Group J predictions

Matchday 1 picks
Argentina 1, Algeria 0
Austria 3, Jordan 1

Matchday 2 picks
Argentina 2, Austria 1
Jordan 0, Algeria 1

Matchday 3 picks
Algeria 1, Austria 0
Argentina 3, Jordan 0

Argentina know who they are and how they want to play their soccer, which is always a benefit in tournaments like this. Oh, and Lionel Messi continues to age like fine wine while Lionel Scaloni continues to bridge the gap to the next generation of Argentine soccer. They’re the clear class of the group and won’t face much of a challenge while Algeria and Austria duke it out for second.

Group K predictions

Matchday 1 picks
Portugal 2, DR Congo 0
Uzbekistan 1, Colombia 2

Matchday 2 picks
Portugal 3, Uzbekistan 1
Colombia 2, DR Congo 1

Matchday 3 picks
Colombia 1, Portugal 1
DR Congo 3, Uzbekistan 0

World Cup James Rodriguez is here, and it’s perfect. Colombia are a flawed team, and they have a Luis Suarez who doesn’t bite people in the side, which should lead to some fun soccer. Oh, and Luis Diaz? Absolute superstar. Of course, Portugal are a team with the potential to win the entire tournament, but they’ve yet to put everything together all at once. Bruno Fernandes is coming into the World Cup after winning the Premier League Player of the Year Award, and he’ll be ready to drop balls into channels for the squad as they score just enough goals to advance as group winners.

Group L predictions

Matchday 1 picks
England 1, Croatia 0
Ghana 2, Panama 1

Matchday 2 picks
England 3, Ghana 1
Panama 1, Croatia 1

Matchday 3 picks
England 3, Panama 0
Croatia 2, Ghana 1

England can be a bore to watch at times, but they sure are effective at playing soccer, especially as Harry Kane chases an elusive Ballon d’Or. Thomas Tuchel’s leadership will help navigate a group that could be tricky, containing Croatia, but as Luka Modric is now 40, their window as dark horses has very much closed. With England playing Croatia on the first day, some of the drama is taken out of the sails of the group as everything settles out well, even with Panama playing Croatia quite closely.

The best third-placed teams

Okay, this is a new one. Needing to predict third-placed finishers is a serious challenge, and it also brings the icky feeling of advancing teams on only three points with a negative goal difference. But alas, that’s the hand that has been dealt in this World Cup, and it will set up some intriguing round of 32 matchups as Ecuador and Norway are the third-placed sides that no one will want to draw.

Final days of group stage play that would generally be rife for rotation has meaningful games straight through. The third-placed teams who come out of all of this won’t be created equal, but who said seeing in soccer was particularly fair? 

The eight teams moving on are Ecuador, Sweden, Iran, Paraguay, Norway, Austria, DR Congo, and Ghana.

Round of 32 picks

Germany 2, Paraguay 1
France 3, Sweden 1
South Korea 1, Canada 0 (ET)
Morocco 1, Netherlands 0
Brazil 2, Japan 1
Senegal 1, Ivory Coast 0
Ecuador 1, Mexico 0
England 2, DR Congo 0
Colombia 2, Croatia 1 (ET)
Spain 2, Algeria 1
United States 2, Norway 1
Belgium 3, Austria 0
Argentina 2, Uruguay 1
Turkiye 2, Egypt 2 (Turkiye advance on PKs)
Switzerland 2, Iran 0
Portugal 2, Ghana 1

The three host nations all advance and are unfortunately greeted with tough opponents in the round of 32. United States, meet destroyer of balls, Erling Haaland. Mexico, have fun shooting at the brick wall that is Ecuador. Not exactly what anyone had in mind when selecting what were supposed to be easy paths for the host nations.  

While it’s a situation where I’d hope my predictions are wrong, it will be nice to see the USMNT tested and defeat a nation at the caliber of Norway, whose defense can be exploited. Belgium continue to look good in vain, while Ecuador are able to keep their cool under pressure to advance in a hostile environment. The knockouts are also where the wheels begin to come off for Brazil; they’re able to make it by Japan, but how much longer can they keep a tightrope act going?

There shouldn’t be many lopsided results at this stage, but the ones that do happen show that eight third-placed teams advancing is about four too many. In an expanded tournament, what are you going to do, though?

Round of 16 picks

France 2, Germany 1
Morocco 1, South Korea 0
Senegal 2, Brazil 1
England 2, Ecuador 1 (ET)
Spain 2, Colombia 1
Belgium 3, United States 1
Argentina 2, Turkiye 1
Portugal 2, Switzerland 1

Here we are, the proper knockouts, where we’re done with that fake knockout round there. The USMNT are still here, and they’re met by another familiar foe, one who may give them nightmares both due to jersey clashes and conceding five goals on the pitch in a recent friendly. They don’t need either of those things to happen at the hands of the Red Devils but while this match will bring improvement for the squad, the end result will bring the same.

England struggle a bit trying to break down Ecuador, but the big matches to watch are Germany versus France and Brazil versus Senegal. Brazil’s struggles catch up to them, and France and Germany turns into absolute cinema. We’re building what’s shaping up to be a stacked field.

Quarterfinal picks

France 2, Morocco 0
Spain 2, Belgium 1
England 1, Senegal 0
Portugal 2, Argentina 1 (ET)

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo get one last ride, and we get plenty of extra time to see what could be the last meeting of two of the greatest players to ever step on a soccer pitch. It will be Ronaldo who keeps his hopes of winning a World Cup title alive but elsewhere, the next generation is making their mark too.

Michael Olise and Kylian Mbappe push France past Morocco while Yamal continues to show that he’s the most important cog to Spain as in the knockouts, they’ll lean on him to make the magic happen. Senegal’s run also comes to an end after a proper battle of the heavyweights and more heroics for Harry Kane.

Semifinal picks

Spain 2, France 1
England 2, Portugal 1

Spain’s passing proves to be just enough to stave off France as yet again, you hear the name Yamal, and the Barcelona man will give the French defense nightmares. In Mikel Oyarzabal, Spain have a secondary attacker as well, who will be able to make sure all the pressure isn’t on Yamal.

England facing Portugal is a glitzy match in its own right, but England are going to do what they do best and take the sting out of the clash as Elliot Anderson performs in midfield like the Rolls-Royce that he is. Ronaldo’s run may end, but the hope that it does indeed come home will remain.

Third-place match pick

France 2, Portugal 1

Somewhere, a game happened, and a victor was crowned.

Final pick

Spain 1, England 0

Heartbreak. England make the final as Thomas Tuchel has gotten the best out of his versatile squad, but this Spain team is so well balanced. They’ll bundle into a goal in the match and then pass the ball to take the sting out, as the final lacks the excitement of the semifinals, especially after needing to break for a halftime show.

This week, the UFC will host an unprecedented event at the White House, putting on a series of fights to celebrate 250 years of the United States.

The UFC’s cage is being constructed on the South Lawn, where seven fights will take place – on the 80th birthday of US president Donald Trump, coincidentally.

Trump is a close friend of UFC president and CEO Dana White, who promised the greatest card in MMA history. And although fans have expressed disappointment in the actual quality of the bout list, it is still a strong collection of contests.

Here’s all you need to know:

When is the UFC White House event?

The event, named ‘UFC Freedom 250’, will take place on Sunday 14 June. The fights will begin at 5pm PT / 7pm CT / 8pm ET (1am BST on Monday).

How can I watch it?

The event will stream live on Paramount+ in the US and UK. In the US, CBS will also provide live coverage, while TNT Sports and HBO Max allow access to the fights in the UK.

Who is fighting?

Subject to change; ‘C’ denotes champion:

Ilia Topuria (C) vs Justin Gaethje (lightweight title) – related: Topuria teases Trump in Oval Office

Alex Pereira vs Ciryl Gane (interim heavyweight title)

Sean O’Malley vs Aiemann Zahabi (bantamweight)

Derrick Lewis vs Josh Hokit (heavyweight) – related: Hokit to fight at White House after Trump’s ringside request

Mauricio Ruffy vs Michael Chandler (lightweight)

Bo Nickal vs Kyle Daukaus (middleweight) – related: Daukaus claims he doesn’t deserve to fight at White House

Diego Lopes vs Steve Garcia (featherweight)

Who can attend? Can I get a ticket?

There will be no general admission for the White House fights, which are expected to be invite-only. However, fans can apply for free tickets to watch the fights from the Ellipse park, next to the White House.

White, 56, said in May: “[Trump] wants this to be mostly for the military, so there’s gonna be 4,300 people there. I just literally went over it right now; 4,300 people, and most of them will be military. 100 per cent [it’s a ‘thank you’ to the military].

“We’re gonna give away about 85,000 tickets [to the Ellipse]. There’s a process, you have to register for tickets, and they’re free […] For those who don’t know, the Ellipse is a massive park. Literally, you’ll be able to see the fight[s] from the Ellipse, but we have screens, we’ve got stages, we’ve got music.”

What other events will take place that week?

A press conference will take place at the Lincoln Memorial on Friday 12 June, beginning at 5.30pm PT / 7.30pm CT / 8.30pm ET (1.30am BST on Saturday).

Then, on Saturday 13 June, a fan festival will play out at the Ellipse, a large park located next to the White House. That will begin at 12.30pm PT / 2.30pm CT / 3.30pm ET (8.30pm BST). Thereafter, the ceremonial weigh-in for the fight card will get started at 5.30pm PT / 7.30pm CT / 8.30pm ET (1.30am BST on Sunday), followed by a concert from the Zac Brown Band at 6.30pm PT / 8.30pm CT / 9.30pm ET (2.30am BST on Sunday).

Finally, the fight card itself will take place on Sunday 14 June, beginning at 5pm PT / 7pm CT / 8pm ET (1am BST on Monday).

What will security be like?

Speaking last September, White said: “The last time I was at the White House, I went up on the roof of the White House, and they’ve got snipers with .50 cals all over the roof of the White House. It’s pretty crazy. But yes, I mean, the security is gonna be a massive issue, because at the end of the day, secret service’s job is to protect the president.”

In late April, Mr Trump was seemingly targeted by a shooter at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, and alleged suspect Cole Allen was later charged with attempted assassination.

In fact, White was present and said afterwards: “It started to get noisy. Tables started getting flipped over, guys running with guns and they were screaming ‘get down!’ I didn’t get down. It was f***ing awesome, and I literally took every minute of it in. It was a pretty crazy, unique experience. We were sitting right in front of the table, right in front of where the president was. Nobody got tackled but guys came in looking for shooters, I thought the shooter was over by us or something.”

Group I is widely regarded as one of the toughest groups at the FIFA World Cup 2026. France arrive as one of the favourites to lift the trophy, while Senegal seek to relive the glory of their famous victory over Les Bleus in 2002. Norway return to the World Cup for the first time since 1998 with Erling Haaland leading an exciting generation, while Iraq make their long-awaited return to the global stage after a 40-year absence.

With Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland and Sadio Mane all sharing the same group, Group I promises to deliver some of the tournament’s most anticipated matches.

FIFA WC 2026 Group I: Teams

• 
  France
• 
  Senegal
• 
  Iraq
• 
  Norway

FIFA WC 2026 Group I: Team analysis

France

France enter the tournament as one of the leading contenders for the title and the highest-ranked team in the group. Didier Deschamps will oversee his final World Cup campaign, hoping to add another trophy to a remarkable international coaching career.

Les Bleus possess arguably the deepest squad in the competition. Kylian Mbappe remains the focal point of the attack, while Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, Desire Doue and Bradley Barcola provide exceptional support. The midfield and defence remain equally impressive, with Aurelien Tchouameni, William Saliba and Theo Hernandez among the key figures.

France recently defeated both Brazil and Colombia in pre-tournament friendlies despite rotating heavily, highlighting the depth available to Deschamps as he seeks one final triumph.

France’s full squad for the FIFA WC 2026: Brice Samba, Malo Gusto, Lucas Digne, Dayot Upamecano, Jules Kounde, Manu Kone, Ousmane Dembele, Aurelien Tchouameni, Marcus Thuram, Kylian Mbappe, Michael Olise, Bradley Barcola, N’Golo Kante, Adrien Rabiot, Ibrahima Konate, Mike Maignan, William Saliba, Warren Zaire-Emery, Theo Hernandez, Desire Doue, Lucas Hernandez, Jean-Philippe Mateta, Robin Risser, Rayan Cherki, Maghnes Akliouche, Maxence Lacroix.

Senegal

Senegal remain one of Africa’s strongest representatives and arrive with a point to prove. The Teranga Lions were at the centre of controversy after their AFCON triumph was later stripped amid legal disputes, creating an added sense of motivation heading into the World Cup.

Pape Thiaw has inherited a talented and experienced squad led by captain Kalidou Koulibaly and star forward Sadio Mane. The squad also features Premier League talent in Nicolas Jackson, Ismaila Sarr and Pape Matar Sarr, while young stars such as Lamine Camara continue to emerge.

Senegal famously defeated France in the opening match of the 2002 World Cup and will hope history can repeat itself when the sides meet again.

Senegal’s full squad for FIFA WC 2026: Yehvann Diouf, Mamadou Sarr, Kalidou Koulibaly, Abdoulaye Seck, Idrissa Gueye, Pathe Ciss, Assane Diao, Lamine Camara, Bamba Dieng, Sadio Mane, Nicolas Jackson, Cherif Ndiaye, Iliman Ndiaye, Ismail Jakobs, Krepin Diatta, Edouard Mendy, Pape Matar Sarr, Ismaila Sarr, Moussa Niakhate, Ibrahim Mbaye, Habib Diarra, Bara Sapoko Ndiaye, Mory Diaw, Antoine Mendy, El Hadji Malick Diouf, Pape Gueye.

Iraq

Iraq return to the World Cup for the first time since Mexico 1986 after one of the longest qualification journeys of any nation in the tournament. Graham Arnold’s side played 21 qualification matches before securing their place.

The Lions of Mesopotamia are built around captain Jalal Hassan and striker Aymen Hussein, whose goals proved decisive throughout qualification. The squad also includes several players with experience of European football, including Zidane Iqbal, Ali Al Hamadi and Youssef Amyn.

Drawn into arguably the toughest group in the tournament, Iraq enter as underdogs but will be determined to prove they belong on football’s biggest stage.

Iraq’s full squad for FIFA WC 2026: Fahad Talib, Rebin Sulaka, Hussein Ali, Zaid Tahseen, Akam Hashim, Manaf Younis, Youssef Amyn, Ibrahim Bayesh, Ali Al Hamadi, Mohanad Ali, Ahmed Qasem, Jalal Hassan, Ali Yousif, Zidane Iqbal, Ahmed Maknzi, Amir Al Ammari, Ali Jasim, Aymen Hussein, Kevin Yakob, Aimar Sher, Marko Farji, Ahmed Basil, Merchas Doski, Zaid Ismail, Mustafa Saadoon, Frans Putros.

Norway

Norway’s return to the World Cup after a 28-year absence has generated enormous excitement. Led by Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard, this is widely viewed as the nation’s most talented generation since the 1990s.

Coach Stale Solbakken has built a balanced side around elite attacking quality. Haaland arrives as Norway’s all-time leading scorer, while Odegaard orchestrates the attack from midfield. Supporting them are Alexander Sorloth, Antonio Nusa, Oscar Bobb and Jorgen Strand Larsen.

Norway qualified impressively and believe they can finally surpass their previous best World Cup performance, having never progressed beyond the Round of 16.

FIFA WC 2026 Group I: Players to watch out for

France — Kylian Mbappe

France’s captain remains one of the most decisive players in world football. Now operating more centrally, Mbappe is the player around whom France’s attack is built.

Senegal — Sadio Mane

Although no longer at the peak of his Liverpool years, Mane remains Senegal’s emotional leader and biggest attacking threat. This tournament could represent his final World Cup.

Iraq — Aymen Hussein

Iraq’s star striker scored the goal that secured qualification and remains one of the nation’s most important players. His finishing ability gives Iraq hope of causing an upset.

Norway — Erling Haaland

Norway’s all-time leading scorer is entering his prime and arrives at the tournament as one of the world’s most feared forwards. His battle with Mbappe will be one of the highlights of the group stage.

FIFA WC 2026 Group I: Final standings prediction

France possess the deepest squad and greatest tournament pedigree in the group, making them favourites to finish top. Norway’s attacking quality gives them a slight edge in the race for second place, though Senegal have more than enough experience and talent to challenge for qualification.

Iraq face a difficult task against three strong opponents but should remain competitive throughout the group stage.

Predicted standings

• 
  France
• 
  Norway
• 
  Senegal
• 
  Iraq

Official FIFA World Cup 2026 Adidas Trionda match ball on the pitch prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Germany and Slovakia at Red Bull Arena on November 17, 2025 in Leipzig, Germany. (Photo/Getty Images)

The FIFA World Cup will return to North America in 2026, 32 years after the United States first hosted the tournament in 1994. But much has changed since then, from the number of teams and matches to ticket prices, stadium requirements and even the way games are managed on the field.The 2026 edition, to be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, will be the biggest World Cup in history. The tournament will feature 48 teams, up from 24 in 1994 and 32 in recent editions.One of the biggest changes is the cost of attending matches. In 1994, first-round tickets ranged from USD 25 to USD 75, while tickets for the final cost between USD 180 and USD 475. For the 2026 World Cup, ticket prices initially ranged from USD 140 to USD 2,735 for first-round games and from USD 4,185 to USD 8,680 for the final. FIFA later increased the highest-priced final ticket to USD 10,990. The 2026 tournament is also the first World Cup to use dynamic pricing, where ticket prices change based on demand.The tournament itself has grown significantly. The 1994 World Cup was the last edition with 24 teams before FIFA expanded the field to 32 in 1998. In 2026, the competition will feature 48 teams and include a new round of 32. Teams reaching the final will now play eight matches instead of seven.There have also been changes to playing conditions. In 1994, FIFA allowed some stadiums to use narrower pitches than the standard dimensions. For the 2026 tournament, stadiums have been modified to meet FIFA’s field-size requirements.Attendance is also expected to increase sharply. The 1994 World Cup drew a record crowd of 3.59 million spectators across 52 matches, averaging 68,991 fans per game. With nearly double the number of matches in 2026, total attendance is expected to reach between six and seven million.The tournament’s footprint has expanded as well. The 1994 edition was played in nine stadiums across the United States, with the opening match held at Soldier Field in Chicago. The 2026 World Cup will use 16 venues — 11 in the United States, three in Mexico and two in Canada. All matches from the quarterfinal stage onward will be played in the United States. Chicago will not host any matches after declining to participate due to concerns over financial arrangements with FIFA.Stadium infrastructure has also changed. While the 1994 World Cup used several NFL venues, some of which no longer exist, all 11 US venues in 2026 are modern NFL stadiums with luxury suites and premium seating areas.Player welfare measures have evolved too. Teams played through hot and humid conditions in 1994 without scheduled breaks. In 2026, matches played in similar weather conditions will include three-minute water breaks in each half, which coaches may also use to pass on instructions.Substitution rules have expanded significantly. Teams could make only two substitutions during the 1994 World Cup, with a third allowed only in specific situations involving goalkeepers. In 2026, teams can use five substitutes during normal time, with an additional substitute available in extra time and another allowed to replace a player suffering a concussion.Several presentation aspects have also changed. Player names first appeared on jerseys at the 1994 World Cup and have since become a standard feature of the game.The way the tournament is organised has changed as well. The 1994 World Cup was largely run by a local organising committee led by Alan Rothenberg, then head of the US Soccer Federation. For the 2026 tournament, FIFA is directly overseeing operations, with president Gianni Infantino playing a prominent role in preparations.

The Carolina Hurricanes will look to even up their best-of-seven series when they battle the Vegas Golden Knights in Game 4 of their 2026 Stanley Cup Final matchup. Vegas outlasted Carolina 5-4 in double overtime on Saturday night to take a 2-1 series lead. The Hurricanes (53-22-7), who finished the regular season with 113 points, are looking to win their second-ever Stanley Cup. The Golden Knights (39-26-17), who finished with 95 points, are looking to win their second Stanley Cup title and first since 2023.

Face-off from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas is set for 8 p.m. ET. The Hurricanes are the -114 favorites (risk $114 to win $100) in the latest Hurricanes vs. Golden Knights odds, while the over/under for total goals scored is 5.5. Before making any Hurricanes vs. Golden Knights picks, check out the 2026 Stanley Cup Final predictions and betting advice for Hurricanes vs. Golden Knights from the SportsLine Projection Model.

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The SportsLine Projection Model simulates every NHL game 10,000 times. The model enters the 2026 Stanley Cup Final with a +568 return on top-rated money-line NHL picks. Anyone following its NHL betting advice at sportsbooks and on betting apps could have seen strong returns.

Now, the model has simulated Hurricanes vs. Golden Knights 10,000 times and just revealed its coveted NHL picks and betting predictions. You can head to SportsLine now to see the model’s picks. Here are several NHL odds and trends for Golden Knights vs. Hurricanes:

Top Golden Knights vs. Hurricanes predictions

After 10,000 simulations of Hurricanes vs. Golden Knights, SportsLine’s model is going Over on the total (5.5). The Over has hit in six of the past 10 head-to-head matchups. The Over has also hit in each of the last four Carolina games, and in four of the past five Vegas games. The Over has also hit in 50 of the last 98 Carolina games with two pushes.

The SportsLine model is projecting Carolina’s Seth Jarvis to score .41 goals and .43 assists, while goaltender Frederik Andersen will make 22 saves and allow 3.11 goals. Vegas’ Pavel Dorofeyev is projected to score .46 goals and .28 assists. Goalie Carter Hart will make 25.8 saves and allow 2.92 goals. It also projects 6.2 combined goals between the teams, making the Over having all the value. See the model’s Hurricanes vs. Golden Knights predictions at SportsLine.

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How to make Hurricanes vs. Golden Knights picks 

After simulating each shift of Golden Knights vs. Hurricanes 10,000 times, the model also says one side of the money line has all the value. You can head to SportsLine to see the model’s NHL picks. 

So who wins Golden Knights vs. Hurricanes, and which side of the money line has all the value? Visit SportsLine now to see which side of the Hurricanes vs. Golden Knights spread to back, all from the model that has returned $668 on top-rated NHL picks, and find out.

Defending champions Argentina begin their quest to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend a FIFA World Cup title. Lionel Messi is set for a sixth consecutive World Cup appearance as Lionel Scaloni’s side take on Algeria, Austria and Jordan in Group J.

Argentina are overwhelming favourites on paper, but Austria’s aggressive pressing game, Algeria’s strongest qualifying campaign in history and Jordan’s fearless debut ensure there should be plenty of intrigue behind the battle for top spot.

FIFA WC 2026 Group J: Teams

• 
  Argentina
• 
  Algeria
• 
  Austria
• 
  Jordan

FIFA WC 2026 Group J: Team analysis

Argentina

Argentina arrive in North America carrying the weight of expectation once again. The reigning world champions followed their 2022 World Cup triumph with another Copa America title in 2024 and remain one of the most complete sides in international football.

Lionel Scaloni has retained the core that conquered Qatar, blending experience with emerging talents such as Nico Paz and Giuliano Simeone. While Lionel Messi remains the face of the team, Argentina have shown they are capable of winning without relying solely on their captain.

The squad remains packed with quality across every department. Emiliano Martínez provides reliability in goal, Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez anchor the defence, while Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister and Enzo Fernández form one of the strongest midfield units in the competition.

Algeria

Algeria return to the World Cup for the first time since 2014 hoping to recreate the magic that took them to the Round of 16 in Brazil. Vladimir Petković has moulded a side that combines experienced leaders with a new generation of attacking talent.

Riyad Mahrez remains the emotional leader despite entering the twilight of his career, while Mohammed Amoura emerged as one of Africa’s most dangerous forwards during qualifying. The emergence of players such as Ibrahim Maza, Amine Gouiri and Anis Hadj Moussa has added fresh energy to the squad.

Algeria enjoyed their best-ever World Cup qualifying campaign and arrive with genuine ambitions of progressing beyond the group stage.

Algeria’s full squad for FIFA WC 2026: Melvin Mastil, Aïssa Mandi, Achref Abada, Mohamed Amine Tougai, Zineddine Belaïd, Ramiz Zerrouki, Riyad Mahrez, Houssem Aouar, Amine Gouiri, Fares Chaibi, Anis Hadj Moussa, Nadhir Benbouali, Jaouen Hadjam, Hicham Boudaoui, Rayan Aït Nouri, Oussama Benbot, Rafik Belghali, Mohamed Amoura, Nabil Bentaleb, Adil Boulbina, Ramy Bensebaini, Ibrahim Maza, Luca Zidane, Yacine Titraoui, Fares Ghedjemis, Samir Chergui.

Austria

Austria are back at the World Cup for the first time since 1998 after establishing themselves as one of Europe’s most organised teams under Ralf Rangnick.

Known for their relentless pressing and intensity, Austria topped a difficult qualifying group and arrive with considerable momentum. David Alaba finally gets the opportunity to play on football’s biggest stage, while Marko Arnautović remains a proven goalscorer despite being in the latter stages of his career.

The midfield combination of Konrad Laimer, Marcel Sabitzer and Nicolas Seiwald gives Austria energy and tactical flexibility, while Rangnick’s system makes them difficult opponents for any team.

Austria’s full squad for FIFA WC 2026: Alexander Schlager, David Affengruber, Kevin Danso, Xaver Schlager, Stefan Posch, Nicolas Seiwald, Marko Arnautović, David Alaba, Marcel Sabitzer, Florian Grillitsch, Michael Gregoritsch, Florian Wiegele, Patrick Pentz, Saša Kalajdžić, Philipp Lienhart, Phillipp Mwene, Carney Chukwuemeka, Romano Schmid, Konrad Laimer, Patrick Wimmer, Alexander Prass, Marco Friedl, Paul Wanner, Michael Svoboda, Alessandro Schöpf.

Jordan

Jordan are one of the stories of the tournament after qualifying for their first-ever World Cup. Their remarkable rise began with a run to the 2024 AFC Asian Cup final before they carried that momentum into qualifying.

Head coach Jamal Sellami has built a disciplined side capable of frustrating stronger opponents, while Mousa Al-Taamari provides the attacking spark. Jordan scored a national-record 32 goals during qualifying and proved difficult to beat away from home.

While expectations remain modest, Jordan have already exceeded previous national achievements simply by reaching the finals.

Jordan’s full squad for FIFA WC 2026: Yazeed Abulaila, Mohammad Abu Hashish, Abdallah Nasib, Husam Abu Dahab, Yazan Al Arab, Amer Jamous, Mohammad Abu Zrayq, Noor Al Rawabdeh, Ali Olwan, Musa Al Taamari, Odeh Al Fakhouri, Nour Bani Attiah, Mahmoud Al Mardi, Rajaei Ayed, Ibrahim Sadeh, Mo Abualnadi, Salim Obaid, Mohammad Taha, Saed Al Rosan, Mohannad Abu Taha, Nizar Al Rashdan, Abdallah Al Fakhouri, Ihsan Haddad, Ali Azaizeh, Mohammad Al Dawoud, Anas Badawi.

FIFA WC 2026 Group J: Players to watch out for

Argentina — Lionel Messi

Even at 39, Messi remains the focal point of Argentina’s attack. The captain enters a record sixth World Cup appearance after scoring eight goals in qualifying and continues to be the player opponents fear most. Having completed football’s greatest prize collection in 2022, he now has the opportunity to achieve something even Diego Maradona never managed — defend a World Cup title.

Algeria — Riyad Mahrez

The Algeria captain remains the team’s creative heartbeat. While age has reduced some of his explosiveness, his vision, technical quality and leadership remain vital. Mahrez’s experience could prove decisive in what is expected to be a tightly contested battle for second place.

Austria — Konrad Laimer

One of Europe’s most complete midfielders, Laimer embodies Austria’s pressing identity. His versatility, work rate and tactical intelligence allow him to influence matches in multiple positions and make him one of Austria’s most important players.

Jordan — Mousa Al-Taamari

Jordan’s biggest star and most accomplished player in European football, the Rennes winger combines pace, dribbling ability and creativity, and much of Jordan’s attacking threat will flow through him during their historic World Cup debut.

FIFA WC 2026 Group J: Final standings prediction

FIFA WC 2026 Group J: Full schedule

Bournemouth are willing to include a release clause in the new contract proposal submitted to Alex Scott.

Scott is subject of interest fromPremier League rivals after an impressive campaign on the south coast.

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The 22-year-old was nominated for thePremier League Young Player of the Season award, and could make his England debut in Wednesday’s friendly with Costa Rica.

Scott has been invited to join the pre-World Cup training camp by England manager Thomas Tuchel, despite missing out on the final tournament squad.

Liverpool have been linked with a move to sign Scott, following the appointment of former Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola. Scott’s childhood side, Tottenham Hotspur, and Manchester United have also monitored his progress this season.

However, Bournemouth are determined to keep hold of the midfielder – for now. The Cherries are preparing a new contract for Scott to recognise his development and are prepared to include a release clause in the arrangement.

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Bournemouth hope release clause can persuade Scott stay

Fabrizio Romano has reported that stance, in a move that replicates past contracts for Dean Huijsen and Rayan. Bournemouth hope the prospect of a future sale, for an agreed fee, can continue to attract emerging talent to the Vitality Stadium.

Huijsen signed for Real Madrid after his £50m release clause was activated last summer, following a superb debut season at Bournemouth. Rayan’s contract contains a €100m (£86.3m) release clause that will only become active in 2027.

Morocco are playing five-time world champions Brazil in their opening World Cup match on June 13, with fans hopeful following the team’s success in the Africa Football Cup of Nations a few months prior. They will also be facing Scotland and Haiti.