Winners and losers of World Cup draw: USMNT receives a boost, Spain rejoices while France worries in Group of Death

The 2026 FIFA World Cup draw took place Friday at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., producing some intriguing matchups and group scenarios. With 48 teams split into 12 groups of four, the potential for surprises is high.

USMNT Gets a Favorable Path

Mauricio Pochettinos U.S. mens national team landed in a group with Paraguay, Australia, and the winner of Trkiye, Romania, Slovakia, and Kosovo. All these opponents are considered manageable, giving the U.S. a strong chance to advance. Recent victories over Paraguay and Australia suggest confidence is high, while Trkiye is likely to emerge as the fourth opponent. Overall, this group appears favorable for the Americans.

Spain Eyes a Smooth Progression

Spain begins its campaign against Saudi Arabia, followed by Cape Verde and Uruguay. After showing impressive form in qualifiers, Luis de la Fuentes squad is expected to top the group comfortably. Despite the early challenge from Saudi Arabia, Spain should avoid the mistakes that surprised Argentina in 2022, making this a promising group for La Roja.

Englands Group Offers Opportunity and Caution

England faces Croatia, Ghana, and Panam. While Croatia remains a strong opponent, aging stars like Luka Modri and Ivan Perii reduce the threat. Ghana has Premier League talent but lacks depth, and Panam is inexperienced on this stage. The challenge will also be environmental, particularly if matches are held in warmer locations such as Dallas. Thomas Tuchels squad must combine confidence with strategic caution to advance.

France Enters the Group of Death

Les Bleus were drawn against Norway, the winner of Bolivia/Iraq/Suriname, and Senegal. Norway, led by Erling Haaland, dominated qualifiers, while Senegal has a historic connection to France and strong recent performances. Many key French veterans have retired, making experience a potential issue. This group is extremely competitive, and advancing will require top-level performance from Kylian Mbapp and his teammates.

Germany Faces an Unpredictable Challenge

Germanys group includes Ecuador, Ivory Coast, and Curaao. Julian Nagelsmanns team is strong but not guaranteed to dominate, given inconsistent form in qualifying. Ecuador finished second in CONMEBOL, Ivory Coast went undefeated in qualifiers, and Curaao, managed by Dick Advocaat, is a surprising but capable contender. This group is unpredictable and could produce upsets, highlighting the World Cups excitement.

Author: Sophia Brooks