The 2026 World Cup draw has thrown up some interesting matches in the group stage.
England, who were in Pot 1, have been handed a rather favourable draw, paired with Croatia, Panama and Ghana as they seek to win their first major competition since 1966.
Argentina, the current world champions after beating France in a thrilling final in Qatar back in 2022, should also feel confident of topping a group containing Algeria, Austria and Jordan.
As is always the case there is one World Cup group that will be viewed as the ‘Group of Death’. This is where one group contains at least two top teams and a much-fancied third team.
Due to the tournament expansion, the 12 group format has thrown up two contenders for the ‘Group of Death’ tag ahead of next summer’s World Cup.
Scotland, back at a World Cup for the first time since 1998, have been paired with Brazil, Morocco and Haiti.
Interestingly, the Scots faced Brazil and Morocco in France 98’, losing both games before earning their only point against Norway.
Speaking of Norway - who have also qualified for their first World Cup since 1998 - it’s safe to say they are in the ‘Group of Death’ alongside France, Senegal and the winner of FIFA Play-Off 2 (Iraq/Bolivia/Suriname).
Les Bleus faced Senegal in their opening game at the 2002 World Cup and were shocked by the African nation who are, perhaps, one of the tournament underdogs.
Meanwhile, Norway outscored every European team in qualification. With Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard among their ranks, they are expected to go deep in the tournament.
World Cup 2026 ‘Group of Death’
Group I: France, Senegal, FIFA Play-Off 2 (Iraq/Bolivia/Suriname), Norway
