Analysis shows host nations often outperform World Cup averages

A USA TODAY analysis reveals that World Cup host nations tend to outperform their historical averages, achieving better results in approximately 73% of cases. Since 1930, only six out of 22 host nations have underperformed their average points per match. The United States, Mexico, and Canada will host the 2026 World Cup, with specific performance expectations for each, including a need for the U.S. to achieve at least 3 points in the group stage. For Canada, any point would surpass its historical average, as it has not recorded a win in its previous appearances.

• 1:43 PMYahoo Sports — How do host nations perform at the World Cup? We ran the numbers.