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FIFA World Cup teams ranked after first round of matches

USA Today • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 18, 2026, 4:58 AM

Last updated Jun 18, 2026

FIFA World Cup teams ranked after first round of matches

Summary

Following the first round of matches in the FIFA World Cup, Argentina, France, and England stand out as strong contenders for the trophy. Uzbekistan made their World Cup debut but fell to Colombia. The second round of the group stage begins Thursday, with teams seeking to secure their positions for the knockout phase. South Africa remains at the bottom of the rankings and must find a result against Czechia to climb the standings.

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By the Numbers

•Argentina, France, and England are considered top contenders.
•Uzbekistan lost to Colombia in their tournament debut.
•The second round of the group stage kicks off on June 18.
•South Africa ranked last and faces Czechia next.

Latest Updates

10:07 AMUSA Today — Power ranking all 48 World Cup teams from worst to first after one match - USA Today
4:58 AMYahoo Sports — Ranking all 48 teams at the World Cup after the first round of matches

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