News Focus
- Norway returns to the finals after 28 years with Erling Haaland in sensational scoring form
- Colombia boasts attacking stars James Rodríguez and Luis Díaz in a favourable Group K
- Morocco aims to repeat their 2022 semi-final heroics despite a recent managerial change
- Japan’s high-pressing tactical system threatens European heavyweights in Group F
- The new 48-team format creates extra opportunities for unexpected deep runs
The 2026 FIFA World Cup introduces a revolutionary format featuring 48 teams. This expansion creates additional space for surprise packages to reach the latter stages. While traditional powerhouses remain favourites, several lesser-fancied sides possess genuine potential to trouble the established order.
Norway enters the tournament following a 28-year absence from football’s biggest stage. The Scandinavian nation dominated their qualification group, which included Italy, and maintained an unbeaten record throughout the campaign. Striker Erling Haaland arrives with remarkable statistics after netting 16 goals in just eight qualifying matches. The Manchester City forward previously watched the World Cup from home despite his world-class status. He now partners with Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard and striker Alexander Sørloth in a dangerous attacking unit. Group I presents a tough test against France, Senegal and Iraq, but second place remains achievable for this energetic side.
Colombia travels to North America with genuine attacking firepower at their disposal. Manager Néstor Lorenzo has constructed a balanced team that no longer relies solely on James Rodríguez’s creative genius. The veteran playmaker, now 35, still dictates tempo with his exceptional left foot. However, Luis Díaz provides the primary threat following his sensational move to Bayern Munich. The winger contributed 26 goals and 19 assists this season while capturing the Bundesliga title. Group K offers a realistic path to the knockout rounds alongside Portugal, DR Congo and Uzbekistan.
Morocco seeks to prove their 2022 semi-final run was no accident. The Atlas Lions eliminated both Spain and Portugal in Qatar through disciplined defensive organisation. Most of that squad remains intact despite manager Walid Regragui’s departure in March. New coach Mohamed Ouahbi inherits a system deeply ingrained within the players. Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi and forward Youssef En-Nesyri provide star quality. An opening fixture against Brazil offers immediate opportunity to make a statement in Group C.
Japan brings a tactical approach that has already troubled world champions. The Samurai Blue defeated both Germany and Spain during the 2022 tournament through intense pressing and rapid transitions. Manager Hajime Moriyasu maintains a well-drilled unit featuring Brighton winger Kaoru Mitoma and Real Sociedad’s Takefusa Kubo. Their Group F assignment against the Netherlands, Tunisia and Sweden appears challenging yet manageable. This collective mentality makes them particularly difficult opponents in knockout football.