It’s confirmed: Tuesday, March 3 signifies a mere 100-day countdown until the 2026 World Cup truly commences, with Mexico welcoming South Africa in Mexico City on June 11. Yet, before reaching that point, several significant challenges await resolution.
During the concluding week of March, the remaining six berths in the competition will be secured, comprising four European squads and two additional sides through an intercontinental qualifying playoff. We also anticipate the tense, high-stakes concluding period of the European club football calendar, where any setbacks suffered by key athletes will unquestionably influence the World Cup aspirations for a diverse array of countries, contingent upon the extent of the harm. Subsequently, mere weeks prior to the commencement of play, all forty-eight national squad managers will finalize their definitive player selections.
Consequently, we are unveiling our periodic influence standings detailing the current state of the participating teams. We surveyed all ESPN FC correspondents accredited for this summer’s events, in conjunction with journalists worldwide, regarding their assessment of the fifteen most formidable nations currently in contention. Yes, we acknowledge numerous prominent squads are yet aiming to secure qualification — Italy, specifically, garnered multiple contingent endorsements, provided they navigate a playoff structure involving Wales, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Northern Ireland — but there is sufficient data available to begin distinguishing the genuine challengers from the unproven hopefuls.
We’ll present a subsequent compilation of rankings to observe the 50-day milestone (April 22) once the complete roster of participants is confirmed, and again leading up to the inaugural celebration after squad lists are concluded and it is determined whether sidelined athletes are sufficiently recovered or must remain absent this summer.
ESPN FC’S World Cup Influence Standings, A Hundred Days Remaining
An Analysis of the Foremost Fifteen
1. SPAIN
Lo and behold. As almost undisputed top selections within our initial Influence Standings, securing fifteen out of twenty-one premier endorsements, it seems La Roja already dominates the global stage, with everyone else merely participating. However, will the World Cup unfold in a similar fashion?
Their qualifying performance lacked dynamism, notwithstanding their first-place finish in their group over Bulgaria, Türkiye, and Georgia, recording five victories out of six fixtures; however, they possess Lamine Yamal, Pedri, and Ferran Torres as offensive assets. Their commanding triumph at Euro 2024, achieved without Rodri, their Ballon d’Or recipient midfielder, demonstrated their capability to operate effectively despite crucial absences; nevertheless, a precarious backline remains a point of apprehension. Uncertainties persist regarding which duo from Dean Huijsen, Robin Le Normand, Aymeric Laporte, and Pau Cubarsí will commence play as central defenders, meanwhile, Unai Simón is anticipated to claim the goalkeeping role, notwithstanding David Raya’s outstanding displays at Arsenal.
Have we highlighted Lamine Yamal, though? An extraordinary asset against any tightly organized defense, Yamal (22 goals+assists in 22 LaLiga games for Barcelona this season) is again projected to achieve the improbable when circumstances demand, but apprehension exists concerning the substantial playing time he is accumulating, despite having just celebrated his eighteenth birthday this past July. Also, the more significant predicament facing this squad is its youthful composition; seasoned expertise frequently proves crucial in major competitions, yet its source remains unclear. A preliminary group featuring Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay is unlikely to present excessive difficulty for Luis de la Fuente & his associates upon their arrival in the U.S., but more formidable opponents will necessitate them rising to the occasion in a manner not observed since their European Championship victory.
2. FRANCE
Les Bleus represent a dominant force comprehensively, irrespective of how one evaluates their roster or reserve of talent. Each role is extensively covered by established excellence and reliable star potential, and following their effortless progression through qualification, marked by five victories from six matches and prolific scoring from Kylian Mbappé, the outlook appears promising once more.
Yet, how readily can they overcome the profound disappointment of their penalty shootout defeat to Argentina in the 2022 final, following a thrilling 3-3 encounter in extra time, where Mbappé netted a hat trick and arguably ought to have secured a decisive goal in the dying moments? And does any apprehension exist concerning the announced conclusion of Didier Deschamps’ tenure as coach — he declared in January his intention to relinquish the managerial role subsequent to France’s World Cup campaign? The impetus to provide their leader with a triumphant departure might prove burdensome, and a challenging group featuring Africa Cup of Nations victors Senegal alongside Norway (hello, Erling Haaland) might present a formidable closing engagement.
About Mbappé: Questions about his fitness have been whispered around Real Madrid for some time, and news Monday that he’s getting some treatment for a sprained knee mean he’ll need to work back up to his best. If the likes of Michael Olise, Désiré Doué and Ousmane Dembélé are at their best, Mbappé can relax a little, but questions around the fullback positions (where most of the options have had lackluster seasons) do at least invite a little concern.
3. ARGENTINA
We anticipate this summer will mark Cristiano Ronaldo’s symbolic final performance (more on him later), however, it could also signify Lionel Messi’s ultimate appearance on the international stage, and it is challenging to comprehend such momentous events unfolding within a solitary World Cup tournament. Nevertheless, an impression persists that he is, to an extent, competing with nothing to lose, after ultimately securing a title in 2022, when the Albicelestes vanquished France in one of the most captivating
World Cup championship matches in history. Having emerged victorious in the preceding two Copa América tournaments, and securing their qualification for the 2026 World Cup early – specifically in March 2025 – underscores their status as the quintessential championship squad.
Currently, Argentina is navigating a shift from the Messi era to its subsequent phase, yet it remains a legitimate aspirant to achieve what no squad has accomplished since Brazil (in 1958 and 1962): securing consecutive victories. Despite Ángel Di María’s absence, exceptional talent surrounds Messi, extending from Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, and Alexis Mac Allister in the midfield to Lautaro Martínez leading the attack. Furthermore, Emi Martínez continues to be recognized among the top (and most captivating) custodians of the net. Julián Álvarez, whose performance and goal-scoring have faltered this season with Atlético Madrid, represents the unpredictable element. Nevertheless, a group featuring Algeria, Austria, and Jordan is anticipated to be an uncomplicated progression for Lionel Scaloni and his seasoned squad.
4. ENGLAND
Ah, England. The Three Lions. Will victory finally arrive? And can it ever return once more? The challenge here – a familiar narrative – perpetually confronting England involves assembling the optimal blend of star players and addressing positional weaknesses (such as left back and defensive midfield) with suitable individuals to ensure seamless performance. Harry Kane’s role will involve scoring, while Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon will provide skill from the flanks, and Declan Rice will offer energy from the midfield. However, synergy and unity will be paramount for individual talents to truly excel.
Thomas Tuchel will also be deeply contemplating the ideal midfield partnership alongside Rice and the most effective central defensive duo from numerous choices, each possessing distinct advantages and disadvantages. He may well regret the absence of an “uncomplicated” adversary in the group phase to allow for in-game modifications. Croatia, Ghana, and Panama are set to thoroughly challenge them, implying that the March preparatory matches against Uruguay and Japan hold slightly greater significance than supporters might prefer, given merely 100 days remain until the competition’s inaugural match.
5. BRAZIL
Is the Seleção prepared to contend once more? Following consecutive quarterfinal eliminations, Brazil possesses an abundance of aptitude, as anticipated. Yet, on this occasion, they enter the fray under the stewardship of the magnetic, star-savvy manager Carlo Ancelotti. Should anyone be capable of forging a triumphant strategy from the vibrant, almost unpredictable, dynamism of Rodrygo, Raphinha, and Vinícius Jr., it would undoubtedly be the individual who garnered 11 pieces of silverware during his second tenure as Real Madrid’s leader.
Nevertheless, a recurring theme at the World Cup mandates that their defensive capabilities must be exemplary. This aspect currently appears to be an ongoing development, as Ancelotti endeavors to construct a robust defense featuring Arsenal’s standout Gabriel and Liverpool’s goalkeeper Alisson, aiming for shutouts and composed play. Recent losses to Bolivia and Japan – the latter witnessing Brazil squander a 2-0 advantage in the second half by allowing three goals within 19 minutes – indicate that equilibrium is still hard to grasp, placing significant responsibility on Bruno Guimarães and Casemiro to unify the midfield efforts.
6. PORTUGAL
Indeed, this represents the sole significant accolade Cristiano Ronaldo has not yet hoisted aloft amidst exultant colleagues… yet, will the 2026 World Cup conclude with a divergent outcome compared to the five prior tournaments he has participated in? His most commendable achievement remains fourth place in 2006, succeeded by eliminations in the round of 16 (on two occasions), the group phase, and the quarterfinals, each often accompanied by Ronaldo’s visible distress.
Currently, the dependence on Ronaldo is somewhat diminishing, attributed more to the abundance of formidable talent surrounding him than to any actual decline in his personal capabilities. However, will coach Roberto Martinez make the crucial decision to relegate CR7 to a supporting role instead of an automatic starting position? Irrespective of the final arrangement, Bruno Fernandes is poised to be Portugal’s primary orchestrator and attacking disruptor in the final third. Rafael Leão provides a wealth of inventive maneuvers from the flank, and a midfield comprising Bernardo Silva, Vitinha, and Rúben Neves possesses the capacity to overpower most adversaries merely by its presence. This is even prior to considering the invaluable qualities Nuno Mendes contributes from his fullback role, in addition to Rúben Dias’s organizational command of the defense.
A grouping including Colombia, Uzbekistan, and an intercontinental qualifier (New Caledonia, Jamaica, or DR Congo) is unlikely to present substantial difficulty. Nevertheless, a clearer understanding of their prospects will emerge after their matches against co-hosts Mexico and the U.S. at the conclusion of March.
7. GERMANY
Consistently recognized as a titan in global football, Germany’s performance in recent years has rather become a cautionary tale in this aspect. Although possessing three European Championship titles (1972, 1980, 1996) and four World Cup trophies (1954, 1974, 1990, 2014), Die Mannschaft suffered early elimination in the group phase during their last two World Cup appearances. Securing victories in five out of six qualifying matches ought to alleviate immediate worries, yet uncertainties persist throughout the initial lineup, with limited time remaining to resolve them.
Ability has never posed a problem and remains so in 2026 – notwithstanding that Joshua Kimmich, Florian Wirtz, and Jamal Musiala require support from their teammates – and a group stage involving Curacao, Ivory Coast, and Ecuador should facilitate their advancement to the round of 32. Their progression beyond that point remains entirely unpredictable.
8. NETHERLANDS
The Oranje clinched their participation in this summer’s celebrations at the eleventh hour, achieving a 1-1 stalemate with Poland before decisively defeating Lithuania 4-0 in Amsterdam during the concluding phase of qualification to ensure their place. Their fluctuating performance renders them a challenging squad to anticipate at the World Cup, where they have been pooled with Japan, Tunisia, and a UEFA qualifier (either Ukraine, Sweden, Poland, or Albania),
However, distinct individual capabilities and a formidable defensive stance can pave a long path to success.
Regarding these twin aspects, Ronald Koeman’s squad possesses a wealth of both: Memphis Depay (with 8 goals) stands as the chief scoring menace, while Cody Gakpo and Donyell Malen exhibit diverse styles of attacking brilliance on the wide areas, and the midfield triumvirate of Frenkie de Jong, Tijjani Reijnders, and Ryan Gravenberch injects both finesse and distinction. (It’s also worth acknowledging Xavi Simons, despite his current difficulties in making a mark at Tottenham Hotspur). Defensively, the unrivaled Virgil van Dijk is supported by a wealth of energetic talent, making it a formidable challenge for opposing teams to breach the Dutch backline. Forthcoming matches against Norway and Ecuador are anticipated to provide a more definitive insight into this squad’s actual standing.
9. MOROCCO
Having just faced defeat against Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations final, the unexpected 2022 World Cup last-four contenders are undoubtedly eager to demonstrate their legitimate prowess at this echelon. Bolstered by a flawless 8-0-0 qualification record—which positioned them among the initial nations to secure their entry into this summer’s tournament—and with a dozen players finding the net throughout, they exhibit a persistent resolve that renders them a formidable adversary on every occasion. Strikers Youssef En-Nesyri and Ayoub El Kaabi display proficiency near the net; the midfield boasts extensive experience from Europe’s top five leagues; and Achraf Hakimi is widely acknowledged as one of the preeminent offensive fullbacks in contemporary football.
While a grouping featuring Brazil, Haiti, and Scotland will present three diverse trials for coach Walid Regragui, the team possesses ample skill and self-assurance to achieve another substantial progression.
10. COLOMBIA
Having been absent from the 2022 installment, Los Cafeteros have returned, possibly in their strongest form to date for 2026, following a commendable qualification campaign (securing third place overall in CONMEBOL with seven victories and seven stalemates across 18 matches) and a resilient defensive showing. Prominent players like Luis Díaz and Luis Suárez (not the Uruguayan forward) have been on the scoresheet, jointly netting 11 goals during qualifying, concurrently, the creative midfielder James Rodríguez is utilizing his stint at Major League Soccer’s Minnesota United FC to attain peak physical readiness. Their achievements extend beyond mere outcomes; their recent performance trend is equally significant: Unbeaten since a 2-1 defeat in Brazil twelve months prior, they have showcased strong displays against multiple World Cup participants (Canada, New Zealand, Australia, and Paraguay) and convincingly routed co-hosts Mexico 4-0, thereby signaling their preparedness.
Paired in a group with Portugal, first-timers Uzbekistan, and a winner from the intercontinental playoff (New Caledonia, Jamaica, or DR Congo), they are expected to advance with ease and pose significant challenges to any team they encounter in the elimination rounds.
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11. BELGIUM
For over a decade, Belgium has remained a consistent fixture at the World Cup, their regular participation – which included reaching the quarter-finals in 2014 and securing a third-place finish in 2018 – spearheaded by the nation’s remarkably talented “Golden Generation”. Nevertheless, that gifted cohort is not preserving its peak form with age, as Axel Witsel (37), Kevin De Bruyne (34), and Romelu Lukaku (32) are all exhibiting signs of regression, making this squad appear to be in a transitional phase.
Emerging signs of rejuvenation are visible within the core of this squad: Charles De Ketelaere is poised to be their next designated creative force in the attacking zone, alongside Jérémy Doku, while Youri Tielemans injects vitality into the midfield; Arthur Theate stands as a formidable defender in his own right, and Thibaut Courtois consistently maintains his premier status between the posts. However, a group pairing featuring Egypt, Iran (for the present), and New Zealand is expected to ensure their progression to another elimination stage, where their exceptional individual abilities might aid in surmounting any underlying tactical shortcomings.
12. NORWAY
It is quite challenging to accurately gauge the Landslaget‘s current standing. They possess a nucleus of exceptional athletes – spearheaded by Martin Ødegaard and Erling Haaland – and effortlessly advanced through their World Cup qualification campaign, achieving an 8-0-0 record with 37 goals netted (and merely five conceded) against Italy, Israel, Estonia, and Moldova. Nonetheless, as this marks their first World Cup appearance since 1998, it remains challenging to forecast how their qualification performance will carry over to the grand international stage. Forthcoming matches against other qualified World Cup teams, the Netherlands and Switzerland, ought to provide some insight, yet it is evident they will heavily rely on Haaland’s goal-scoring prowess – given he scored an astonishing SIXTEEN times in qualification – if they are to advance from a challenging group.
13. SENEGAL
Senegal will approach the World Cup as one of the national squads in excellent condition, owing to their remarkable campaign in the 35th Africa Cup of Nations early in the year. They leveraged a remarkable collective determination – and successfully navigated the tumultuous circumstances of the final against Morocco – to clinch the trophy. Forthcoming exhibition matches against Peru and Gambia will offer scant indication of their World Cup preparedness, however, an experienced squad featuring Sadio Mané, Nicolas Jackson, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Ismaïla Sarr is as formidable as any. Nevertheless, their grouping with France and Norway implies they must deliver nothing short of an impeccable display.
14. CROATIA
Irrespective of how often we presume Croatia cannot display flair at this echelon, spearheaded by the apparently timeless 40-year-old midfielder Luka Modric and supported by a robust contingent of senior players across the roster, they consistently remain a menacing force at this level, come what may. Securing the runner-up spot in 2018 and the bronze medal in 2022 appears a challenging feat to mirror this summer; however, an advantageous group pairing – they are set to confront El Tri, South Africa, and a UEFA qualifier (from Czechia, Republic of Ireland, Denmark, or North Macedonia) – at minimum provides them a significant advantage for advancing to the round of 32. What transpires after that remains entirely unpredictable.
15. JAPAN
The Samurai Blue, as they are popularly called, have edged into the classification. Although their dominance within Asia is broadly acknowledged, we will obtain a more accurate assessment of their World Cup preparedness through exhibition matches against other qualified nations, Scotland and England, towards the close of March. Nevertheless, we anticipate them to contend fiercely, as they consistently perform at this echelon, having advanced to the last sixteen in the previous two tournaments courtesy of their combined industriousness and individual talent. (Topping their group in the previous instance, with victories against Germany and Spain, strongly testifies to their capability.)
However, this particular World Cup might become more challenging if captain Wataru Endo is sidelined. The Liverpool midfielder recently had an operation on his ankle and will be absent for the remainder of the 2025-26 season, thereby making his summer involvement uncertain.