Switzerland

vs

Bosnia

Group B's most pivotal fixture takes place at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, where a frustrated Switzerland — robbed of a deserved win against Qatar by a last-gasp own goal — face a Bosnia and Herzegovina side who held co-hosts Canada to a 1-1 draw in a performance full of fighting spirit. Both sides have a point, both want three. But the tension is different: Switzerland feel they should already be top of the group, while Bosnia arrive with growing confidence that they can cause a proper upset here.

Switzerland — La Nati

Murat Yakin makes one notable change from the Qatar draw, restoring Widmer to his natural right-back position — Zakaria started there against Qatar but was criticised for not crossing into the box and losing positional sense as the game progressed. Widmer's delivery and technical quality make him the obvious choice. The back four of Rodriguez, Akanji, Elvedi and Widmer is familiar and reliable.

In midfield, Aebischer gets the nod — rapidly emerging as one of Yakin's most trusted players, capable of operating as a central midfielder, full-back or winger — alongside captain Granit Xhaka and Freuler. That midfield three is technically excellent and should control large portions of this match. Up front, Ndoye and Vargas flank Breel Embolo — Embolo who was denied what appeared a legitimate penalty against Qatar and who will be hungry to put that frustration into a productive performance here. Yakin opted for Embolo's all-round threat over Amdouni's sharper finishing, and with Bosnia expected to be physical and compact, Embolo's ability to hold the ball and bring others in could be just as important as pure goalscoring.

Switzerland dominated Qatar — 23 shots, xG of 3.20 to 0.60 — and were done by a freak own goal. The performance was genuinely impressive. Against Bosnia, the challenge is different: Džeko and Demirović are a far more dangerous front two than anything Qatar offered, and Switzerland's defence will be tested in ways it wasn't in game one.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Several selection battles have resolved themselves since the Canada draw. The lineup shows Kolasinac retaining his place at left back despite injury concerns — a significant call, suggesting he has recovered sufficiently. Katic edges out Hadžikadunić at centre-back alongside Muharemović, who has been increasingly impressive. Dedić starts on the right.

In midfield, Basic — who was excellent as a substitute against Canada — comes in, with Tahirović and Bajraktarević completing a four that offers both industry and quality. Sunjić is back from injury but not ready to start. The notable decision up front is to start Lukić alongside Demirović rather than risk Džeko, who is expected to be fit enough for around 30 minutes off the bench. Lukić was superb against Canada — winning headers, holding the ball and scoring the opener. It is a bold decision by the coaching staff to leave a player of Džeko's quality on the bench, but Lukić earned it.

Bosnia drew with Canada and only conceded through a substitute in the 78th minute. Their defensive shape was solid, their set-piece delivery dangerous, and Demirović showed real quality throughout. They will not be overawed here — and with Džeko as a game-changing weapon off the bench, they carry a late-game threat that Switzerland must account for throughout.

Predicted Lineups

Key Battle

Granit Xhaka vs Tahirović and Basic. Xhaka is the controlling force of this Switzerland side — he sets the tempo, picks the passes and provides the set-piece delivery that creates chances. Bosnia's central midfield pairing of Tahirović and Basic will look to close him down quickly, deny him time on the ball and force Switzerland wide. If Xhaka can find space to operate, Switzerland's attacking quality should eventually tell. If Bosnia's midfield can be as physically combative as they were against Canada, this could be a far more difficult evening for La Nati than the Qatar game suggested.

Prediction

Switzerland are the better team and the likely winners, but this is not straightforward. Bosnia have Džeko to bring on, Demirović is in good form, and their defensive shape is organised. Expect Switzerland to dominate possession but find Bosnia hard to break down — before quality eventually tells in the second half, with Džeko potentially making his influence felt late.

Switzerland 2–1 Bosnia and Herzegovina — Embolo, Ndoye — Demirović

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Czechia

vs

South Africa

Two sides already staring down the barrel of early elimination meet at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta in what is effectively a must-win fixture for both. Czechia were the better side against South Korea but still lost 2-1, conceding twice after leading. South Africa were chaotic against Mexico — defending poorly, going down to nine men and losing 2-0 in an opener they would rather forget entirely. Both need three points. Neither can afford to drop more. Group A is suddenly wide open.

Czechia — Repre

Miroslav Koubek sticks with the 3-4-2-1 shape that carried them through qualifying, with Kovář in goal behind a back three of Krejčí, Hranáč and Chaloupek — the same unit that started the South Korea game. Krejčí was the scorer against South Korea, heading home from Vladimir Coufal's long throw in the 59th minute. That set-piece threat from dead balls is Czechia's most reliable weapon and South Africa will have noted it carefully.

The midfield four of Železný, Souček, Sojka and Coufal retains the surprise inclusion of Sojka — only his third cap — who held his spot ahead of Sadílek. Souček anchors and arrives late from deep, Coufal provides the delivery and overlapping threat from the right. In the advanced roles, Provod and Šulc support lone striker Patrik Schick, who was withdrawn along with the entire front three on 64 minutes against South Korea without getting on the scoresheet. Schick is the quality up front — his movement, finishing and aerial ability make him a constant threat — but he needs service, and questions remain over whether Provod, Šulc and the wide midfielders can provide it consistently enough.

Czechia ended a 20-year World Cup absence by beating Denmark on penalties in the UEFA play-off. The first game showed they can defend, set up and score from set-pieces — but also that they are vulnerable to teams who press high and win second balls. South Africa in their natural 4-2-3-1, if they choose to play it, could do exactly that.

South Africa — Bafana Bafana

Hugo Broos has made the switch to a more attacking 4-2-3-1 — as expected after the first game's defensive 5-3-2 was exposed and then compounded by two red cards. Ronwen Williams — the best South African player on the pitch against Mexico and arguably the reason the score was only 2-0 — keeps his place in goal. The back four of Kabini, Mbokazi, Okon and Mudau provides a more balanced defensive structure, with Mbokazi having impressed despite the heavy defeat.

The double pivot of Mokoena and Adams — Adams coming in for the suspended Sithole — provides the defensive base. Crucially, Bafana Bafana have finally selected their most dangerous players in the attacking unit: Maseko on the left, the exciting Mofokeng through the middle and Appollis on the right. These are the players the South African fans wanted to see from the first whistle against Mexico. Appollis in particular carries the kind of direct, pace-driven threat that Czechia's wide midfielders will find difficult to track. Rayners leads the line up front.

South Africa are without the suspended Sithole and Zwane — two key players, particularly Zwane who is one of their most creative outlets — and that double suspension has been a real blow to their attacking options in gameweek two.

Predicted Lineups

Key Battle

Appollis vs Železný. Appollis is South Africa's most dangerous attacking player — direct, quick and capable of producing moments of quality from wide areas. Železný on Czechia's left of the midfield four will be tasked with tracking him defensively while also needing to contribute going forward. If Appollis gets in behind Železný repeatedly, South Africa have a genuine route to goal. If Czechia can force play into central areas and limit Appollis's involvement, their own set-piece threat becomes the dominant force in this match.

Prediction

Both sides are under pressure but Czechia have more quality in key positions — Schick, Souček and Coufal are proven top-level players. South Africa's new attacking setup is more promising, but losing Sithole and Zwane is a real blow. Expect Czechia to edge a competitive match, with set-pieces once again likely to be decisive.

Czechia 2–1 South Africa — Schick, Krejčí — Appollis

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Uzbekistan

vs

Colombia

The final fixture of a remarkable Wednesday kicks off in the early hours at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, where Uzbekistan — making their first ever World Cup appearance — face a Colombia side who arrive as one of the most watchable teams in this tournament. The contrast in experience could scarcely be greater. But Uzbekistan's coach is a World Cup winner, their qualifying campaign was exceptional, and Group K — which also features Portugal and DR Congo — gives both sides a realistic path to the knockout stages if they can pick up a result here.

Uzbekistan — The White Wolves

Fabio Cannavaro, the 2006 World Cup-winning captain now coaching this remarkable story, sets up in a disciplined 5-4-1, with Yusupov in goal behind a back five of Nasrullaev, Ashurmatov, Khusanov, Urozov and Alijonov. The midfield four of Fayzullaev, Hamrobekov, Shukurov and Urunov is compact and disciplined, with lone striker Eldor Shomurodov carrying the primary attacking responsibility.

Uzbekistan's arrival here is one of the tournament's great underdog stories. They have been knocking on the door of World Cup qualification for over a decade — falling at the final hurdle on multiple occasions — but this time they tore through AFC qualifying with only one defeat in 16 games. Ranked 50th in the world, they finished second behind Iran in both qualifying rounds. The previous coach Kapadze was dismissed despite this success, with Cannavaro brought in to prepare the team for the finals. A pre-tournament loss to Canada (2-0) and defeat to the Netherlands (2-1) show the size of the step up — but Cannavaro will have them organised and difficult to break down.

Shomurodov is the name to watch — the Roma striker has 19 goals in 55 international appearances and is technically one of the most accomplished forwards produced by Central Asian football. Fayzullaev in midfield carries the creative spark, capable of arriving late to support attacks. The shape is compact and pragmatic — Cannavaro will set up to frustrate Colombia, stay in the game and look for a moment on the counter.

Colombia — Los Cafeteros

Néstor Lorenzo lines up in a 4-4-2, with Vargas in goal behind a back four of Mojica, Sánchez, Lucumí and Muñoz. The midfield four of Lerma, Rodríguez, Puerta and J.Arias provides both defensive solidity and attacking width, while Luis Díaz and Jhon Córdoba — labelled as Suárez on the image — partner in attack.

Luis Díaz is Colombia's most important player and one of the most dangerous wide forwards in world football. The Liverpool winger's directness, pace and ability to arrive late into central areas makes him a constant threat — and against a back five that will have limited experience at this level, he could be devastating. Alongside him, Córdoba provides the physical presence and aerial threat. In midfield, James Rodríguez — now in his mid-30s but still one of the most technically gifted players in this squad — will look to pull strings from central positions and supply Díaz with the service he needs.

Colombia topped CONMEBOL qualifying on points in an impressive unbeaten campaign, finishing above Argentina and Brazil in the standings. They beat Brazil 2-1 in Barranquilla — one of the results of the qualifying cycle — and scored 26 goals in 18 games. The supercomputer gives them a 68% win probability here. They are the clear favourites and look every inch a side capable of making the knockout stages.

Predicted Lineups

Key Battle

Luis Díaz vs Uzbekistan's right side. Díaz will operate predominantly down Colombia's left — which means he runs directly at Nasrullaev and Alijonov on Uzbekistan's right flank. Neither has faced anything close to this level of opponent in international football before. If Cannavaro's back five can stay compact and deny Díaz the space to drive inside, Uzbekistan have a chance of keeping this close. If the Colombian wide threat is allowed to function freely, the gaps will appear — and Córdoba and Rodríguez will arrive to punish them.

Prediction

Uzbekistan are here to compete, not simply make up the numbers — Cannavaro has built a well-organised side and Shomurodov is a real threat on the counter. But Colombia's quality across the pitch, and Díaz's ability to decide matches on his own, should be too much over ninety minutes. Expect a competitive first half before Colombia's class tells after the break.

Uzbekistan 0–2 Colombia — Díaz, Díaz

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Ghana

vs

Panama

The late kick-off from BMO Field in Toronto pits two sides carrying very different narratives into Group L's most open fixture. Ghana arrive in the midst of a seven-game winless run, having parted ways with their previous coach and handed the reins to Carlos Queiroz. Panama come in on the back of considerable progress and a five-game winning run — Los Canaleros having beaten Colombia, Ecuador and Chile in the build-up and looking every inch a side that has arrived ready to compete. On form, Panama should win this. But Ghana's individual quality makes them dangerous regardless of recent results.

Ghana — The Black Stars

Carlos Queiroz sets up in a 4-2-3-1, with Asare in goal behind a back four of Mensah, Opoku, Adjetey and Senaya. The double pivot of Sibo and Yirenkyi provides the midfield structure, while Adu, Sulemana and Semenyo support lone striker Jordan Ayew.

Ghana's route to this tournament was comfortable — they topped their CAF qualifying group six points clear of Madagascar — but since October they have been in dismal form. Queiroz inherited a side that had lost to Austria 5-1, Germany 2-1 and Mexico 2-0 in the build-up, and he has had limited time to implement his ideas. The squad has genuine individual quality — Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth is one of the most explosive wide players in the Premier League, Sulemana provides direct pace on the left, and Ayew captains with experience — but cohesion and confidence are both fragile heading into this opener.

Ghana have reached the quarter-finals of the World Cup before (2010) and have real tournament pedigree, but the seven-game winless run is the longest in their recent history and Queiroz's challenge is to rebuild belief in the space of one preparatory period. If they can find their form, they have the quality to beat anyone in this group outside of England.

Panama — Los Canaleros

Thomas Christiansen sets up in a compact 3-4-3, with Mosquera in goal behind a back three of Andrade, Ramos and Córdoba. The wing-backs Blackman and Murillo provide the width, with Harvey and Martínez in the midfield pairing. Up front, the trio of Díaz, Fajardo and J.Rodríguez gives Panama a mobile, energetic attack.

Panama's form heading into this tournament has been genuinely impressive. Five consecutive wins — including victories over Colombia, Ecuador and Chile — suggest a side that has found an identity and a level of confidence under Christiansen. They finished second in CONCACAF qualifying behind the USA, demonstrating consistent quality throughout the campaign. Cecilio Waterman — their most dangerous attacker — is a doubt and may not be fully fit, which would be a significant loss to their attacking threat, but the squad is deep enough to cope.

This is only Panama's second World Cup appearance — they made their debut in 2018, losing all three group games. The growth since then has been substantial, and this group represents a realistic opportunity for them to reach the knockout stages for the first time.

Predicted Lineups

Key Battle

Antoine Semenyo vs Panama's back three. Semenyo is the most dangerous player Ghana possess — direct, rapid and capable of creating something from nothing when he receives the ball with space to run into. Panama's back three is disciplined but has been troubled by pace in recent warm-up matches. If Queiroz can get Semenyo on the ball in wide areas against a wing-back, Ghana have their best chance of causing damage. Panama's defensive structure will need to be alert to him from the first whistle.

Prediction

Panama's momentum and Ghana's form point toward a Panama win — but Ghana's individual quality makes them dangerous regardless of their recent results. Queiroz is an experienced coach who has managed at World Cups before, and the occasion of a tournament opener has a habit of resetting form guides. That said, seven games without a win is not a run you simply snap out of with a team talk.

Lean toward Panama — but Ghana's talent means this could go either way.

Ghana 1–2 Panama — Ayew — Fajardo, Murillo

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England

vs

Croatia

For England, every major tournament opener carries the same narrative weight — sixty years of hurt, renewed hope, and a squad that might finally be good enough. For Croatia, this is a chance to prove that the nation which finished runners-up in 2018 still has enough in the tank for one more statement at a World Cup. They meet at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Dallas — a fixture loaded with history, tactical intrigue, and the very real possibility that one of these sides goes home early if they don't start well. Group L also contains Ghana and Panama. This result could define the group.

England — The Three Lions

Thomas Tuchel lines up in a 4-2-3-1, with Jordan Pickford in goal behind a back four of Reece James, Ezri Konsa, John Stones and Liam O'Reilly. The double pivot of Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson — the Nottingham Forest midfielder who has been one of the revelations of England's qualifying campaign — provides the platform. In the advanced roles, Noni Madueke and Anthony Gordon flank Jude Bellingham, with Harry Kane leading the line.

England's qualification was flawless — eight wins from eight, eight clean sheets, the first UEFA nation to book their place. But the cracks have shown in warm-up: a draw with Uruguay and an unprecedented defeat to Japan — their first ever against an Asian nation — unsettled confidence ahead of the tournament. A win over Costa Rica in the final warm-up steadied things, but the questions over Tuchel's best system and Bellingham's optimal role remain unanswered. Bellingham at his best is one of the finest players in the world. Getting the best of him in a team context is England's central tactical challenge.

Kane arrives needing three goals to break England's all-time scoring record outright. He has 64 — level with Wayne Rooney. The motivation is real, and against a Croatia side who are no longer as defensively robust as they once were, he will fancy his chances.

Croatia — The Vatreni

Zlatko Dalić sets up in a 3-4-2-1, with Dominik Livaković in goal behind a back three of Gvardiol, Vušković and Sutalo. The wing-backs are Perišić on the left and Stančić on the right, while the midfield pairing of Luka Modrić and Mateo Kovačić remains one of the most technically gifted in the tournament at any age. Baturina and Kramarić operate in the advanced roles behind lone striker Budimir.

Modrić is 40 and this is almost certainly his final World Cup. He will not be the explosive force he was in 2018 — but his reading of the game, his passing range and his ability to slow or quicken the tempo remains essentially unmatched at this level. Kovačić alongside him gives Croatia the energy and box-to-box running that allows Modrić to function. Joško Gvardiol is arguably the best centre-back in the world right now — his composure, athleticism and ability to carry the ball from deep make him Croatia's most important defensive asset and an attacking outlet from the back three.

Croatia's Euro 2024 was a disaster — three group games without a win, out before the knockouts. Dalić has rebuilt since, but the questions over what happens when Modrić retires still hang over this squad. Their warm-up brought losses to Brazil and Belgium before a 2-1 win over Slovenia steadied things. They are a dangerous, experienced side — but not the irresistible force of 2018.

Predicted Lineups

Key Battle

Jude Bellingham vs Luka Modrić. The heir apparent against the master — Bellingham at 22 facing the midfielder who has defined this era of the game at 40. Modrić will look to control tempo, pick passes that bypass England's pressing and dictate the match from deep. Bellingham will look to arrive in dangerous areas, win second balls and create the moments that unlock a back three. Whoever exerts more influence on the midfield battle will go a long way to winning the match. It is the generational passing of the baton in one 90-minute contest.

Prediction

England have more quality in this squad than at any World Cup since 1990, and North American soil should suit them better than a neutral European venue would. Kane is motivated by the scoring record, Bellingham is capable of winning any game on his own, and Croatia, for all their experience, are no longer the side they were in 2018. England should win this, and win it without too much drama.

But after Tuesday's results, nobody is predicting anything with complete confidence.

England 2–1 Croatia — Kane, Bellingham — Kramarić

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Portugal

vs

DR Congo

Portugal open their Group K campaign at NRG Stadium in Houston against a DR Congo side making their first World Cup appearance in 52 years. This is a first-ever meeting between the two nations, and the occasion could hardly be more loaded — Cristiano Ronaldo, 41 years old and playing in his sixth World Cup, steps out in what may be the final chapter of the most decorated individual career in the history of the sport. Roberto Martínez's side are among the most technically gifted squads at this tournament. But after the shock of Spain being held by Cape Verde on Tuesday, nobody is taking anything for granted.

Portugal — A Seleção das Quinas

Martínez lines up in a 4-3-3, with Diogo Costa in goal behind a back four of Cancelo, Dias, Veiga and Nuno Mendes. Rúben Dias captains the side and brings the authority and leadership this defence needs — his partnership with the technically gifted Veiga gives Portugal a solid but ball-playing base. The midfield three of Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes and João Neves is one of the most technically complete in the tournament — Fernandes the creative hub, Vitinha the quick-passing connector, Neves the disciplined energy provider.

Up front, Cristiano Ronaldo leads the line in what is almost certainly his final World Cup, flanked by Francisco Conceição on the right and João Félix on the left. Ronaldo arrives having had a complicated season at Al-Nassr — 27 goals, but at 41 he is no longer the explosive athlete of his peak. What he does bring is an unmatched ability to produce in the biggest moments, the movement to still threaten in behind, and the set-piece menace that has defined his international career. Portugal have won all three warm-up matches, scoring 12 goals against USA, Chile and Nigeria. The platform is there.

Their best World Cup was 1966, when they finished third. Since then — quarter-finals, semi-finals, quarter-finals — always promising, never quite delivering. Ronaldo has reached two semi-finals but never lifted the trophy. This is his last realistic chance, and the entire Portuguese squad is built around making that happen.

DR Congo — The Leopards

Sébastien Desabre sets up in a compact 5-2-1-2, with Mpasi in goal behind a back five of Wan-Bissaka, Kapuadi, Mbemba, Tuanzebe and Masuaku. The double pivot of Mukau and Sadiki protects the back five, with Moutoussa the link between midfield and the front two. Cédric Bakambu and Lois Openda's replacement Wissa lead the attack.

The back five is genuinely intriguing — Axel Tuanzebe, the man whose extra-time goal against Jamaica secured DR Congo's place here, partners with Aaron Wan-Bissaka — both Premier League-pedigreed players who give this side a level of top-flight experience that belies their ranking. Chancel Mbemba anchors the centre alongside them. The shape is clearly designed to be hard to break down, remain compact and hit Portugal on the counter.

DR Congo's qualification story is extraordinary. They held Denmark to a goalless draw in warm-up, reached the last-16 of the most recent AFCON, and their victory over Jamaica in the intercontinental playoff has already given this squad a belief that they can compete at the highest level. They have won two of their last four and have only suffered one defeat in that stretch. Desabre will be under no illusions about the task here, but nor will he have come simply to make up the numbers.

Predicted Lineups

Key Battle

Bruno Fernandes vs the DR Congo double pivot. Fernandes is at his most dangerous when he receives the ball in half-spaces between the lines and can drive forward with purpose. Mukau and Sadiki will be tasked with denying him exactly that — staying compact, closing quickly and forcing him wide. If DR Congo can limit Fernandes' influence and stay compact for the first hour, they have a chance of making this uncomfortable. If he finds space and starts picking passes into the front three, Portugal can win this by any margin.

Prediction

Portugal are the class act here and should win comfortably. But Spain's draw on Tuesday serves as a timely reminder that compact defensive systems and a goalkeeper in form can cause anyone problems. DR Congo will be well organised, Wan-Bissaka and Tuanzebe are experienced defenders, and this may be tighter than expected for the first hour. Eventually though, the quality of Fernandes, Félix and Ronaldo will tell.

Portugal 3–0 DR Congo — Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Félix

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Austria

vs

Jordan

Group J concludes its opening round in the early hours at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara, where Austria make their first World Cup appearance since 1998 against a Jordan side making their very first appearance in the finals. The contrast could barely be more stark — Austria arrive as one of Europe's more underrated sides, under the meticulous management of Ralf Rangnick and with genuine knockout stage ambitions. Jordan arrive as complete tournament debutants, on a five-game winless run, missing their top scorer, and facing the daunting prospect of opening their World Cup with Austria before then playing Argentina and Algeria. Both sides have their own reasons to make this count.

Austria — Die Burschen

Rangnick lines up in a 4-2-3-1, with Alexander Schlager in goal behind a back four of Posch, Alaba, Lienhart and Laimer. David Alaba — returning from a long-term knee injury that ruled him out of much of the club season at Real Madrid — is expected to start despite fitness concerns, and his experience and leadership in the heart of the back four is simply too important to leave out. The double pivot of Xaver Schlager and Seiwald provides the defensive structure and midfield energy, with Seiwald in particular one of the most underrated holding midfielders in European football.

In the advanced positions, Marcel Sabitzer operates on the left, Romano Schmid on the right, and the tireless Michael Gregoritsch through the middle — the man whose 77th-minute equaliser against Bosnia in qualifying sent Austria to this tournament. Up front, the talismanic Marko Arnautovic leads the line. At 37, he is well past his peak but remains a handful for defenders and arrives in decent personal form. The notable absence is Christoph Baumgartner, ruled out through injury — a significant creative loss for Rangnick's side.

Austria's qualification was superb — six wins, one draw, one defeat from their European group, finishing above France in the process. Their warm-up form has been equally encouraging: a stunning 5-1 win over Ghana, followed by tight 1-0 victories over South Korea and Tunisia. They have not reached the World Cup knockout stages since 1954 — and this is the most talented, best-coached Austrian squad in a generation. A win here would be the ideal launchpad before the Argentina and Algeria tests that follow.

Jordan — The Chivalrous Ones

Jamal Sellami sets up in a 5-3-2, with Abulaila in goal behind a back five of M.Taha, Obaid, Arab, Nasib and Haddad. The midfield three of Mardahi, Rashdan and Rawabdeh is disciplined and compact, while Ali Olwan and Mousa Tamari partner up front.

The biggest blow to Jordan's preparations has been the absence of Yazan Al-Naimat — their top scorer with eight goals during World Cup qualifying — who has been ruled out since December with injury. His absence strips Jordan of their most dangerous attacking outlet at the worst possible time. Tamari, the Sporting CP forward, becomes the primary threat in his place — 14 international goals and a player with genuine top-level club experience — but he is a very different type to Al-Naimat and Jordan's attacking plan has had to be rebuilt around him.

Jordan's build-up form has been poor — four friendlies without a win, two draws and two defeats, including a loss to Serbia. Their five-match winless run represents the kind of momentum that heading into a World Cup opener against a quality opponent is deeply concerning. The Arab Cup run to the final earlier this year — losing only narrowly to Morocco after extra time — showed what this squad is capable of at its best, but that version of Jordan feels some way away from what has been seen since.

The occasion itself will be enormous for Jordanian football. This is a country that has never before appeared at a World Cup finals — and simply being here, whatever happens, is a historic achievement that should not be understated.

Predicted Lineups

Key Battle

Marcel Sabitzer vs Jordan's right side. Sabitzer operating on Austria's left will look to exploit the space behind Jordan's right wing-back and drive into the areas where he can combine with Arnautovic and Gregoritsch. Sabitzer is one of the most dynamic players in this Austrian squad — quick, technically excellent and capable of arriving late to score from midfield positions. If Jordan's defensive shape holds and their wing-backs stay disciplined, they can limit the damage. But Sabitzer finding pockets and running at a back five that has not been tested at this level before is Austria's most reliable route to goal.

Prediction

Austria are the significantly better team and should win comfortably. Jordan's poor recent form, the absence of Al-Naimat and the sheer step up in quality they face makes this a very difficult assignment. Rangnick's side are organised, well-drilled and hungry to announce themselves at a World Cup for the first time in 28 years.

Expect Austria to be professional and controlled — and Arnautovic, as always, to make sure everyone knows he turned up.

Austria 3–0 Jordan — Arnautovic, Sabitzer, Gregoritsch

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Argentina

vs

Algeria

The reigning world champions finally take the field. Argentina open their Group J campaign at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City against a Algeria side that has quietly assembled one of the most dangerous attacks outside the top ten in this tournament. This is not the banana skin that 2022's opener against Saudi Arabia turned out to be — but Lionel Scaloni has warned his players to take nothing for granted, and with good reason. The Fennec Foxes beat the Netherlands in warm-up, have conceded just twice in their last six matches, and carry a front three capable of punishing any lapse. The occasion carries its own weight too: tonight, Lionel Messi makes his 200th international appearance and becomes the first player in history to participate at six different World Cup tournaments. This is history in every sense.

Argentina — La Albiceleste

Scaloni lines up in a 4-4-2, with Emiliano Martínez — the penalty hero of Qatar 2022 and undisputed first choice — in goal behind a back four of Medina, Otamendi, Romero and Molina. Romero and Otamendi is one of the most experienced and formidable centre-back partnerships at this tournament, while Molina's overlapping runs from right back provide a crucial attacking outlet for the team.

The midfield four of Almada, Fernández, Mac Allister and Paúl is balanced and technically excellent. Mac Allister provides the creative link from deep, Fernández the combative energy to win second balls, while Almada and Paúl give Argentina width and the ability to switch play quickly. Up front, the partnership of Lionel Messi and Julián Álvarez is the most celebrated in world football right now. Álvarez — tireless, intelligent and clinical — ran the channels and scored vital goals throughout the 2022 run. Messi, at 38, is no longer the explosive wide forward of his Barcelona peak, but his vision, movement, dead-ball delivery and sheer ability to conjure something from nothing in the tightest of spaces remains unmatched by anyone alive.

Argentina topped CONMEBOL qualifying with 38 points, including a memorable 4-1 win over Brazil, and have won seven consecutive matches since, scoring 21 goals and conceding just one. They have won all six of their World Cup matches against African opposition since 1990. The weight of defending the title is significant — but this is a squad that has been through everything together and knows how to deliver under pressure.

Algeria — The Fennec Foxes

Vladimir Petkovic lines up in a 4-3-3, with Zidane in goal behind a back four of Nouri, Mandi, Bensebaini and Belghali. The midfield three of Boudaoui, Maza and Chaibi provides a solid engine room — Boudaoui is the standout, a combative and dynamic presence who can drive forward and add numbers to attack when the opportunity arises.

The front three is where Algeria carry their genuine threat. Riyad Mahrez — at 35 and winding down his career at Al-Ahli, but still a player of world-class pedigree when motivated — starts on the right and will look to cut inside onto his left foot and find the killer ball. Islam Slimani's replacement as the primary striker is Mohamed Amoura — the Wolfsburg forward who has been one of the revelation performers in Algeria's build-up, quick, direct and increasingly clinical in front of goal. Gouiri provides the pace and creativity from the left.

Algeria's qualification was impressive — they topped their CAF group, suffered just one defeat, and only two African teams scored more goals. Their pre-tournament results are genuinely encouraging: a 7-0 rout of Guatemala, a goalless draw with Uruguay, wins over the Netherlands and Bolivia. Petkovic has built a defensively organised and tactically disciplined side, and they arrive on a five-match unbeaten run. The gap in class between these two sides is real — but Algeria's form says they can make this uncomfortable.

The one context worth noting: in 2022, Argentina lost their opener to Saudi Arabia before recovering to win the title. Scaloni will have made sure his players have not forgotten that.

Predicted Lineups

Key Battle

Riyad Mahrez vs Nicolás Medina. Mahrez at his best is one of the most dangerous players in this tournament — he drifts inside from the right, operates in tight spaces and can deliver the final ball or shoot on goal in equal measure. Medina at left back will have to be disciplined in denying him the turn, aggressive enough to press high when needed and alert enough not to ball-watch when Mahrez looks to exchange passes and spin in behind. If Mahrez finds pockets and has time, Algeria can hurt anyone. If Medina can contain him, Argentina's right side opens up and Molina's overlapping runs become far more dangerous for Algeria in return.

Prediction

Argentina will win this. Their quality is simply too great across the pitch, Messi and Álvarez are the best strike partnership in the tournament, and the occasion of Messi's 200th cap and sixth World Cup will bring the best out of a squad that thrives on historic moments. But Algeria's defensive solidity, Mahrez's individual quality and the memory of Saudi Arabia 2022 ensure this is far from a formality.

Expect Argentina to be patient, professional and ultimately decisive in the second half.

Argentina 3–0 Algeria — Messi, Álvarez, Mac Allister

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Iraq

vs

Norway

Group I concludes its opening round of fixtures at Boston Stadium in Foxborough, where Iraq — making only their second ever World Cup appearance — face a Norway side built around one of the most feared strikers in the history of the game. The late kick-off is not without significance: both sides will already know France and Senegal's result before they take the field, adding an immediate strategic dimension to a match that could define the group's shape from the very first evening. For Iraq, every point is precious. For Norway, only one result is acceptable.

Iraq — Usood Al-Rafidayn

Australian coach Graham Arnold sets up in a 4-4-2, with captain Jalal Hassan — earning his 103rd cap at the age of 35 — in goal behind a back four of Doski, Hashem, H.Ali and Tahseen. The midfield four of Jassim, Sher, Ammari and Amyn is tasked with the near-impossible job of limiting Norway's attacking quality, with Ammari and Sher providing the defensive screen at the base. Up front, Aymen Hussein partners Ali Al-Hamadi — both mobile strikers who will rely on pace on the counter-attack rather than sustained possession to create their opportunities.

Iraq's story to reach this point is one of the more remarkable of the tournament. Arnold inherited a team on the brink of elimination from AFC qualifying after a shock defeat to Palestine in March 2025 — the result that cost Jesus Casas his job. Arnold steadied the ship, guided Iraq through rounds three, four and five of qualifying and then delivered a 2-1 playoff win over Bolivia to seal their place here. It is only Iraq's second ever World Cup appearance — their first was in 1986, where they lost all three group games and scored just once. The weight of that 40-year wait to return, and the journey through which this generation has earned it, gives this squad a fierce motivation that no team should underestimate.

The concern is form. Iraq have won just twice against teams outside their own confederation since November 2022, losing four and drawing two of those eight matches. Their pre-tournament friendlies brought a 1-0 win over Andorra, a creditable 1-1 draw with Spain — which will give Arnold's players heart — and a 2-0 defeat to Venezuela. The step up in class from AFC opposition to Haaland and Ødegaard is enormous. But Arnold is a canny coach who knows how to organise a defence, and Iraq will not be here simply to make up the numbers.

Norway — Landslaget

Ståle Solbakken lines up in a 4-3-3, with Nyland in goal behind a back four of Wolfe, Heggem, Ajer and Ryerson. The midfield three of Ødegaard, Berge and Aursnes is captained by the Arsenal midfielder — one of the most technically complete players at this tournament and the creative conductor around whom everything Norway do flows. Berge alongside him provides the physicality and range of passing from deeper positions, while Aursnes covers the ground and makes the runs that others are too disciplined to attempt.

Up front, the selection of Erling Haaland, Antonio Nusa and Alexander Sørloth represents one of the most powerful front threes at this World Cup. Haaland needs no introduction — 44 goals in 52 international appearances, the most prolific striker on the planet and a player whose physicality, movement and finishing ability simply do not have a meaningful weakness. Nusa, still only 20, provides electric pace and directness on the left, while Sørloth offers a different kind of threat on the right — powerful, direct and capable of holding the ball with his back to goal when Norway need to relieve pressure.

Norway's qualifying campaign was flawless — 24 points from 24, 37 goals scored, just five conceded, finishing above Italy in their group. Their last World Cup appearance was in 1998, where they made the round of 16. Solbakken will be acutely aware that the group stage draw pitches them against France in the next fixture — making a win here not just desirable but essential to give Norway breathing room going into that enormous match.

Predicted Lineups

Key Battle

Erling Haaland vs the Iraq centre-backs. Tahseen and H.Ali will face the most demanding 90 minutes of their international careers. Haaland is at his most devastating when he can run in behind a high defensive line — and Arnold will instruct Iraq to sit deep and compact to deny him that space. The question is what happens in the air from set-pieces and crosses, where Haaland's physical superiority is essentially impossible to negate. If Iraq can keep him goalless for the first half hour and stay in the game, the equation changes. If Haaland finds the net early, this could become a very long evening for Usood al-Rafidayn.

Prediction

Iraq's defensive resilience and Arnold's tactical nous may frustrate Norway early, but the gulf in class is too significant to sustain for ninety minutes. Haaland is the difference-maker in this fixture — he has scored against every type of opponent and there is no evidence Iraq's back line is equipped to contain him. Ødegaard will find the pockets between Iraq's lines and supply the ammunition, and once the first goal goes in, Norway should be comfortable.

Iraq's 1-1 draw with Spain in warm-up suggests they can compete at this level — but Norway are a different kind of opponent, and Haaland is a different kind of problem.

Iraq 0–3 Norway — Haaland, Haaland, Sørloth

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France

vs

Senegal

Group I opens at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, with one of the most historically charged fixtures of the entire tournament. France — co-favourites alongside Spain to lift the trophy — begin their campaign against a Senegal side that knows exactly what it is capable of against this opponent. In 2002, Senegal stunned the then-reigning world champions 1-0 in one of the great World Cup upsets, a result that began the end of France's tournament. Senegal coach Pape Thiaw was in that squad. He has not forgotten. Les Bleus will be making sure their players haven't either.

France — Les Bleus

Didier Deschamps — in his final World Cup before handing the reins to Zinedine Zidane — sets up in a 4-3-3, with Mike Maignan in goal. The back four of Theo Hernandez, Saliba, Upamecano and Koundé is as strong a defensive unit as any nation has assembled at this tournament. Saliba arrives having recovered from a back injury scare sustained in the Champions League final — fears that he might miss the entire tournament were quickly allayed when he returned to full training, and his partnership with Upamecano gives France an authoritative platform at the back.

The midfield three of Rabiot, Olise and Tchouaméni is the creative engine — and Michael Olise is the most exciting player in this role, capable of ghosting past opponents in tight spaces and producing decisive moments from seemingly nothing. He was the inspiration behind France's 3-1 friendly win over Northern Ireland just before the tournament, and Deschamps will be looking to him to unlock Senegal's well-organised defensive block.

Up front, Ousmane Dembélé provides pace and directness on the right, Désiré Doué the creative running on the left, while Kylian Mbappé leads the line through the centre. Mbappé needs no introduction — 50 international goals, the most feared attacker in world football, and a player who has consistently reserved his best performances for World Cup stages. He arrives having resolved his long-running contract situation with Real Madrid and in a considerably calmer headspace than in some previous tournaments. France have scored two or more goals in nine of their last ten fixtures. When they click, they are simply irresistible.

Deschamps has the chance to overtake Helmut Schön's record of 16 World Cup wins as a manager with a perfect group stage. The motivation to go out on the highest possible note after over a decade in charge is immense.

Senegal — The Lions of Teranga

Pape Thiaw sets up in a 4-2-3-1, with the veteran Édouard Mendy in goal behind a back four of Éric Diouf, Niakhate, M.Sarr and Diatta. The double pivot of Idrissa Gueye and Pathé Gueye provides the defensive structure, with the attacking three of Sadio Mané, Ismaïla Sarr and Iliman Ndiaye operating behind lone striker Nicolas Jackson.

That front four is genuinely dangerous. Sadio Mané — despite being at 34 and no longer the explosive force of his Liverpool peak — remains technically excellent, reads the game beautifully and leads this attack with experience and intelligence from the left. Ismaïla Sarr on the opposite flank brings pace and directness, while Iliman Ndiaye is the most creative of the three in central areas. Nicolas Jackson, the Chelsea striker, leads the line — 9 goals in his last 14 appearances for Senegal make him a more reliable international option than his sometimes inconsistent club form might suggest.

Senegal's preparations have been mixed. A 3-2 loss to the USA was followed by a goalless draw with Saudi Arabia that broke a 17-match scoring run — but also extended their clean sheet record to five from seven. Thiaw's side are well organised and hard to score against, and the Lions of Teranga arrive having claimed the 2025 AFCON title — or at least an extremely strong claim to it, with the legal dispute over the Morocco final still unresolved. Whatever the paperwork says, this squad believes it is the best on the African continent, and that belief matters.

Predicted Lineups

Key Battle

Kylian Mbappé vs Niakhate and the Senegal back four. Mbappé will run at Senegal's centre-backs from the moment the whistle blows, looking to exploit the space in behind with his trademark acceleration. Niakhate is experienced and composed — but he has rarely faced a player moving at this pace with this quality. If Senegal's back four hold their defensive line too high, Mbappé will go in behind repeatedly. If they drop deep to protect the space, France will have more room to play through midfield and the problem simply shifts elsewhere. There is no comfortable answer to Mbappé on his day, and this may be his day.

Prediction

Senegal caused the upset of the 2002 World Cup against this exact opponent. But this France side is not the 2002 vintage — this is arguably the most complete French squad since 1998. Mbappé, Dembélé and Olise in full flow is a combination that Senegal's midfield will struggle to contain for ninety minutes, and Maignan and that back four will keep Jackson and company at arm's length for much of the game.

Expect France to win comfortably, with Mbappé inevitably on the scoresheet.

France 3–1 Senegal — Mbappé, Mbappé, Olise — Mané

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