World Cup 2026: Who looks ready for glory as the round of 32 takes shape?

Yaw Darko·5 min read·25 Jun 2026

The expanded FIFA World Cup has already delivered shocks, breakout stars and tactical masterclasses, and with the inaugural

Round of 32 now taking shape, the race for football's biggest prize is beginning to reveal its leading contenders.

From traditional heavyweights such as Brazil, Argentina, France and Germany to emerging forces like Morocco and South Africa, the first phase of the tournament has provided a glimpse into which teams have the quality, resilience and tactical flexibility to go deep into the competition.

But as history repeatedly shows, reaching the knockout rounds is only the beginning.

Brazil: The Most Complete Team So Far?

Brazil have quietly gone about their business with the efficiency expected of five-time world champions.

Their greatest strength remains their balance. Unlike previous Brazilian sides that relied heavily on individual brilliance, this team appears more structured. They defend aggressively, control possession comfortably and possess match-winners across the pitch.

Strengths

• Technical superiority

• Strong squad depth

• Ability to dominate possession

• Multiple attacking threats

Weaknesses

• Occasional defensive lapses against quick transitions

• Heavy expectations could become a burden

Verdict

Brazil look among the strongest contenders for the title. If they avoid injuries, they should be expected to reach at least the quarter-finals.

Argentina: Champions Know How to Win

The defending champions have once again demonstrated why tournament football suits them perfectly.

Argentina may not always be spectacular, but they are disciplined, ruthless and incredibly difficult to beat.

Strengths

• Winning mentality

• Tactical maturity

• Strong defensive organisation

• Experience in pressure situations

Weaknesses

• Ageing core of senior players

• Less explosive than some rivals

Verdict

Argentina remain one of the favourites. They know how to manage knockout football better than almost anyone.

France: Firepower Everywhere

France have looked dangerous every time they attack.

Their squad is arguably the deepest in the competition and they possess pace, creativity and physicality in abundance.

Strengths

• Elite attacking options

• Outstanding athleticism

• Strength in every position

Weaknesses

• Defensive concentration can fluctuate

• Occasionally vulnerable against disciplined opponents

Verdict

If France maintain consistency, they have every chance of reaching another final.

Germany: Quietly Building Momentum

Germany's performances have not generated the same headlines as some rivals, but they have shown signs of becoming increasingly effective.

The Germans remain one of the most tactically disciplined teams in the tournament.

Strengths

• Organisation

• Midfield control

• Set-piece quality

Weaknesses

• Lack of a prolific goalscorer

• Can struggle against deep defensive blocks

Verdict

Germany rarely peak during the group stage. They become more dangerous as tournaments progress.

Colombia: South America's Dark Horse

Few teams have impressed neutrals more than Colombia.

Aggressive pressing, quick transitions and fearless attacking football have made them one of the most entertaining sides to watch.

Strengths

• High energy

• Counter-attacking threat

• Tactical flexibility

Weaknesses

• Defensive vulnerability

• Inexperience in latter stages

Verdict

Nobody will want to face Colombia in the Round of 32.

Norway: Scandinavian Surprise Package

Norway's qualification has been one of the stories of the tournament.

Their blend of physicality and technical quality has troubled opponents throughout the group phase.

Strengths

• Physical dominance

• Direct attacking play

• Strong team spirit

Weaknesses

• Limited squad depth

• Reliance on key players

Verdict

A dangerous outsider capable of causing a major upset.

Morocco: Africa's Standard Bearers Again

Four years after their historic run to the semi-finals in Qatar, Morocco are proving that achievement was no accident.

They remain organised, disciplined and exceptionally difficult to break down.

Strengths

• Defensive solidity

• Tactical discipline

• Strong collective identity

Weaknesses

• Limited goalscoring output

• Fine margins in tight games

Verdict

Morocco have the tools to reach the quarter-finals and possibly beyond.

South Africa: The Tournament's Biggest African Surprise

South Africa's qualification represents one of the most significant achievements by an African side at this tournament.

They have shown remarkable resilience and tactical discipline against higher-ranked opponents.

Strengths

• Defensive organisation

• Work rate

• Team unity

Weaknesses

• Limited attacking firepower

• Lack of knockout-stage experience

Verdict

Bafana Bafana have already exceeded expectations but could become a difficult obstacle for any opponent.

USA: Home Support Could Be a Major Weapon

Playing on home soil, the United States have benefited from enormous support and growing confidence.

Their youthful squad continues to mature.

Strengths

• Energy and athleticism

• Home advantage

• Strong pressing game

Weaknesses

• Inconsistency

• Lack of experience in major knockout matches

Verdict

The Americans have the potential to make a deep run if momentum continues.

Mexico: Feeding Off Home Advantage

Mexico have once again shown their ability to perform on the biggest stage.

Playing in front of passionate support has given them an extra edge.

Strengths

• Experience

• Tactical intelligence

• Strong fan backing

Weaknesses

• Finishing remains inconsistent

• Defensive vulnerabilities against elite opposition

Verdict

Mexico are capable of reaching the Round of 16 and beyond if they remain disciplined.

Canada: Continuing Their Rise

Canada's emergence as a serious football nation continues.

The co-hosts have displayed confidence, pace and a willingness to attack.

Strengths

• Speed in transition

• Youthful squad

• Fearless approach

Weaknesses

• Defensive concentration

• Limited tournament experience

Verdict

Canada are no longer underdogs. They are genuine contenders to reach the last 16.

Switzerland: The Ultimate Tournament Team

Switzerland continue to do what Switzerland always seem to do — qualify and frustrate stronger opponents.

Strengths

• Defensive organisation

• Tactical discipline

• Mental toughness

Weaknesses

• Lack of attacking creativity

• Struggles when forced to dominate games

Verdict

A difficult opponent who can take any match deep into extra time.

Who Looks Most Likely to Lift the Trophy?

Based on performances so far, the leading contenders appear to be:

1. Brazil

2. France

3. Argentina

4. Germany

5. Morocco

6. Colombia

The biggest surprise package remains South Africa, while Morocco continue to carry Africa's strongest hopes of a deep run.

However, the introduction of the Round of 32 changes the dynamics of the World Cup dramatically. One bad night, one red card or one penalty shootout can end years of preparation.

The group stage has separated the contenders from the pretenders. Now comes the part of the tournament where legends are made.