Hosts Ready to Kick Off Biggest World Cup in History .webp "World Cup 2026: Who Will Win Each Group? Debate Builds as Mexico Prepares for Tournament Opener")
.webp "World Cup 2026: Who Will Win Each Group? Debate Builds as Mexico Prepares for Tournament Opener")
The 2026 FIFA World Cup gets underway with co-hosts Mexico preparing to face South Africa in the opening match at the iconic Estadio Azteca. Mexico head into the tournament as favorites to top Group A, with coach Javier Aguirre hoping to guide El Tri to a memorable start on home soil.
With the expanded 48-team format creating 12 groups, fans around the world are already debating which nations will finish top of their respective sections.
Predicted Group Winners
Based on recent expert predictions and pre-tournament analysis, the following teams are widely tipped to finish first in their groups:
Group | Predicted Winner |
A | Mexico |
B | Switzerland |
C | Brazil |
D | Türkiye |
E | Germany |
F | Netherlands |
G | Belgium |
H | Spain |
I | Norway |
J | Argentina |
K | Portugal |
L | England |
Spain, France and Argentina Among Tournament Favorites
While group-stage predictions vary, many analysts see Spain, France, England and Argentina as the leading contenders to lift the trophy next month. Opta's pre-tournament simulations have placed Spain among the strongest favorites heading into the competition.
Meanwhile, dark horses such as Norway, Japan, Ecuador and Türkiye are attracting attention as potential surprise packages capable of exceeding expectations.
Mexico Looking to Make History
The spotlight will initially fall on Mexico as they attempt to secure their first-ever victory in a World Cup opening match. Despite appearing in several tournament openers throughout their history, El Tri have never won the curtain-raiser and will be eager to change that record in front of a passionate home crowd.
Aguirre has urged his players to embrace the occasion while remaining calm under pressure as the nation prepares for what could be one of the most significant moments in Mexican football history.
Fans Join the Debate
With the tournament finally underway, football supporters across the globe are making their predictions for group winners, breakout stars and eventual champions.
Will defending champions Argentina retain their crown? Can Spain continue their recent dominance? Or will one of the host nations produce a memorable run?
The debate is only just beginning as the road to World Cup glory gets underway.