World Cup 2026 group stage: the storylines to follow

The 2026 group stage runs 11–27 June, and the new format adds fresh intrigue to the opening fortnight.

• The third-placed race — eight of twelve third-placed teams advance, so even a loss might not end your tournament
• Bigger field, more debutants — the 48-team format opens the door to first-time and returning nations
• Group of Death watch — Group I (France, Senegal, Norway, Iraq) looks the toughest on paper
• Hosts under pressure — the USA, Mexico and Canada all want a strong start at home

Rank all 12 groups in the predictor and see who you send into the Round of 32.