World Cup 2026 expert predictions surface ahead of tournament
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 9, 2026, 12:15 PM
Last updated Jun 9, 2026
As the World Cup begins, USA TODAY Sports experts share their bracket predictions for the 2026 tournament. The event features 48 teams divided into 12 groups, with the top two teams and eight best third-place teams advancing to the knockout stage. Defending champion Argentina aims for a repeat, while multiple strong contenders, including France and Spain, are expected to compete for the title. Predictions include various group winners, with expert consensus leaning towards teams like France and Spain as possible finalists, based on their current form and historical performance. The tournament unfolds this summer across multiple venues.
- •Tournament features 48 teams in 12 groups.
- •Argentina is the defending champion.
- •Experts predict France and Spain as strong contenders.
- •Top two from each group plus eight best third-place teams qualify for knockout phase.
- •Predictions suggest various possible finalists for 2026.
- 12:15 PMYahoo Sports — World Cup expert picks: Bracket predictions for 2026 tournament
"The World Cup has arrived and with 48 teams, five knockout stages and 104 games, it will be a challenge to follow. Luckily we have you covered!
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