Predictions for the FIFA World Cup 2026: ¡Everything You Need to Know So Far!

By Angel Piedra

Special to the Tejano Tribune

In the last days, we’ve witnessed the latest chapter of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. 18 nations have already secured their seats for the most ambitious soccer tournament in the planet, the FIFA World Cup. With Suarez leading the way, Colombia thrashed Venezuela 6-3, leaving them out of the playoff and handing the place to Bolivia, who stunned Brazil with a 1-0 victory. The Mexico-Korea clash, the African qualifiers, and other regional matches are just a glimpse of what is coming once tournament officially begins. We will see the new format, plus my own predictions, and analysis for the next event of the century.

A new format, a new experience

The 23^rd edition of the World Cup will be historic. For the first time, three nations will share hosting duties across 16 cities: United States, Mexico, and Canada. And while traditionally 32 teams fought for the trophy, this time 48 nations will compete in an unprecedented context.

The group stage will feature 12 groups of 4 teams each one. The two top from every group, along with the eight best third-place teams, will advance to a newly introduced round of 32. From that phase, the intensity will increase through the stages, starting the round of 16. A total of 104 matches will be played.

The predictions: Favorites and rising generations

Out of the 48 teams, 18 have already qualified. New faces like Uzbekistan and Jordan are making their first ever debut, while seasoned contenders like Argentina returns defending their Champions from Qatar 2022. My prediction for the “Albiceleste” is another string of victories, as much they’ve shown early since this year. Leading the CONMEBOL standing with 31 points in 14 matches, Argentina became the first South American team to qualify, and with talents like Julian Alvarez, Alexis Mac Miller, and Giuliano Simeone proving they’re still on rise. In March, they extended their dominance by staying inbeaten against Brazil, highlighted Messi scoring twice against Venezuela at 38 years old. The question is: how much longer can this golden run last, and how much more influence can Messi support the team at his 38 years old?

Another favorite is Germany, four-time world champion, now facing one of the most fragile moments in its history. Their campaign will be as fierce as always likely enough to reach the quarterfinals, but not at their usually level.  A recent 2-0 loss to Slovakia enraged fans and even legendary figure Rudi Voller, who declared it was “not only disappointing, it was lifeless.” Despite bouncing back with a 3-1 win over Northern Ireland, doubts remain about Nagelsmann’s leadership. Will German mentality alone be enough to restore themselves among the true contenders?

Then comes Brazil, the eternal five-time champions. This time they’re led by a post-Neymar generation. With Rodrygo, Endrick, and above all Vinicius Jr. -whose decisive goal against Uruguay secured Brazil’s ticket- plus Carlo Ancelotti at the helm, the team promises fireworks in the groups stage with their aggressive attacking style.  Meanwhile, England, boasting Bellingham, Folden, and Saka, and France (still leading the Group D) with Mbappé dominating the scene, remain prime candidates for the glory.

The debutants and final verdict

Among the most anticipated debut is Norway, spearheaded by Haaland, Ødegaard, Berge, and Bobb. Despite their champions over in Euro 2024, their fresh wave of talent could surprise on the big stage. Spain, on the other hand, is not just among the favorites -it’s a serious candidate for the title. Fresh off their Euro triumph. Spain arrives shinning with confidence, powered by stars like Yamal, Oyarzabal, Merino y Pedri. Their September demolition of Turkey proves “La Rioja” may be entering a new golden era.

Off the pitch, conditions will Aso draw headlines. According to Football for Future’s study, 15 of the 16 World Cup stadiums face significant climate threats -from water stress in Guadalajara to unpredictable weather in Vancouver. Added to that are concerns about extreme heat and even rising violence in the U.S. and Mexico, making this tournament more challenging off the field as on it.

Finally, if I had to predict the gran finale, I’d place my bet on Argentina facing a European team. France or Germany have the pedigree to fight for the trophy, but in clash between the New World and the Old, history tells us one thing: the Cup stays at home.