London, June 9, 2026, With the FIFA World Cup 2026 fast approaching, several nations are preparing for vastly different journeys in North America. While traditional powerhouses France and Spain arrive with squads packed with world-class talent and championship ambitions, Iran enters the tournament amid political uncertainty and logistical challenges that have overshadowed its preparations.
The expanded tournament promises compelling storylines across Groups G, H and I, where experienced contenders, emerging nations and underdogs will battle for a place in the knockout rounds.
Belgium's Ageing Golden Generation Faces New Test
Group G features Belgium, Iran, Egypt and New Zealand, with Belgium entering as the clear favorite despite concerns over an ageing squad.
The country's celebrated "golden generation" that secured a third-place finish at the 2018 World Cup is nearing the end of its cycle. Veterans such as Kevin De Bruyne, Thibaut Courtois, Romelu Lukaku and Axel Witsel remain key figures, but Belgium's once-formidable defensive line has largely disappeared.
Coach Rudi Garcia will rely heavily on attacking talents, including Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku. Questions remain over Lukaku's fitness after a season disrupted by limited playing time at Napoli.
Iran, ranked 21st in the world, arrives under extraordinary circumstances. Ongoing tensions involving the United States raised concerns over the team's participation. Due to security considerations, Iran will be based in Mexico and travel significant distances for matches in Los Angeles and Seattle.
The Middle Eastern nation has qualified for four consecutive World Cups but has never advanced beyond the group stage.
Egypt, led by Liverpool legend Mohamed Salah, hopes to improve its disappointing World Cup record. Despite being one of Africa's most successful football nations with seven Africa Cup of Nations titles, Egypt has never won a match at the World Cup.
Meanwhile, New Zealand enters as the tournament's lowest-ranked team. The "All Whites" will look to experienced striker Chris Wood, the nation's all-time leading scorer, to provide a competitive edge.
Spain Looks to End World Cup Frustrations
Group H appears favorable for Spain, which arrives in North America as one of the tournament's strongest contenders.
Since winning its first World Cup title in 2010, Spain has failed to progress beyond the Round of 16. However, coach Luis de la Fuente's squad combines youth and experience, led by teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
The Barcelona star is expected to play a central role alongside Nico Williams and Mikel Oyarzabal. Spain's midfield boasts exceptional depth, featuring Pedri, Gavi, Rodri, Fabian Ruiz and Martin Zubimendi.
The squad also benefits from strong defensive stability and three elite goalkeepers, making Spain one of the most balanced teams in the competition.
Uruguay, a two-time world champion, is expected to challenge Spain for top spot in the group. Under renowned coach Marcelo Bielsa, the South American side relies heavily on Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde.
However, the absence of veteran forwards Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani has raised concerns about Uruguay's attacking threat.
Saudi Arabia, famous for its stunning victory over Argentina at the 2022 World Cup, enters with a new coach after the departure of Herve Renard. Greek manager Georgios Donis faces the challenge of guiding the team beyond the group stage.
Making its World Cup debut is Cape Verde, one of the smallest nations ever to qualify for the tournament. The island nation hopes to continue its remarkable football journey on the sport's biggest stage.
France Targets Another World Cup Crown
Group I may prove to be one of the tournament's most competitive sections, featuring France, Senegal, Norway and Iraq.
France enters as one of the favorites to lift the trophy. Under long-serving coach Didier Deschamps, the nation has enjoyed remarkable consistency, winning the World Cup in 2018 and finishing runner-up in 2022.
The 2026 tournament will mark Deschamps' final campaign in charge, adding emotional significance to France's title bid.
Captain Kylian Mbappe remains the team's biggest star, supported by Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele and Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise. The depth of France's squad is highlighted by the fact that emerging talents Desire Doue and Bradley Barcola may begin matches on the bench.
Senegal hopes to recreate the magic of its famous 2002 World Cup run, when it shocked defending champion France in the opening match and reached the quarterfinals.
Led by former Liverpool forward Sadio Mane, the African side remains one of the continent's strongest teams despite ongoing controversy surrounding its recent Africa Cup of Nations campaign.
Norway returns to the World Cup for the first time since 1998. Although often viewed as outsiders, the Scandinavian nation possesses two of Europe's most recognizable stars in Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard.
For Iraq, simply reaching the tournament represents a significant achievement. The nation's qualification journey was marked by extraordinary travel and logistical challenges, culminating in a playoff victory over Bolivia.
Tournament Set for High-Stakes Battles
As the countdown to FIFA World Cup 2026 continues, established giants such as France and Spain appear well-positioned to challenge for football's biggest prize. Belgium seeks one final run from its ageing stars, while emerging teams including Cape Verde and Iraq aim to make history.
Meanwhile, Iran's participation amid geopolitical tensions serves as a reminder that the world's most popular sport often intersects with events far beyond the football field.
With North America preparing to host the largest World Cup in history, fans can expect a tournament filled with drama, star power and unforgettable moments.