Preview of the 2026 FIFA World Cup: Teams to Watch
As the expanded 48‑team format approaches, several nations are preparing to make their mark on the tournament in North America. Drawing on recent performance data, qualified rosters and expert analysis, this preview looks at four squads that have generated particular interest: Portugal, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uzbekistan and Colombia.
Portugal: Seeking a Memorable Send‑off for Ronaldo
Portugal remains one of Europe’s most experienced World Cup participants. Since Cristiano Ronaldo’s debut in 2006, the side has reached the quarter‑finals once (Qatar 2022) and exited in the round of 16 in 2010. The 2014 campaign ended in the group stage, while earlier appearances in 2006 and 2010 also finished before the knockout rounds.
Despite Ronaldo’s age—he will be 41 during the 2026 tournament—he continues to be a prolific scorer. In the 2025‑26 Saudi Pro League season he netted 28 goals in 30 matches, helping Al‑Nassr secure the league title. His leadership was also evident when he captained Portugal to victory in the 2024 UEFA Nations League.
Head coach Roberto Martínez, who guided Belgium to a third‑place finish at the 2018 World Cup, brings a wealth of international experience. Under his direction Portugal has blended youth with quality: Bruno Fernandes operates as the creative hub, while Bernardo Silva (Manchester City), Vitinha (Paris Saint‑Germain) and the emerging João Neves provide dynamism in midfield. This combination gives Portugal a realistic chance to advance deep into the competition and give Ronaldo a fitting farewell on the world stage.
Sources: FIFA World Cup historical records, UEFA Nations League 2024/25 official report, Saudi Pro League statistics (2025‑26), interviews with Roberto Martínez (BBC Sport, March 2024).
Democratic Republic of Congo: A Historic Return
The DRC’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup marks the nation’s first appearance since Zaire’s debut in 1974. That inaugural campaign is remembered for a bizarre incident in the match against Brazil, when Mwepu Ilunga kicked the ball before a free‑kick could be taken—a act later interpreted as a quiet protest against the Mobutu regime’s wage disputes.
Since then, Congolese football has rebuilt around a solid defensive backbone and an energetic, pressing style. The road to the 2026 finals saw the DRC finish second to Senegal in their qualifying group, then overcome Cameroon (1‑0) and Nigeria (4‑3) in the playoff rounds before securing the inter‑confederation spot with a 1‑0 win over Jamaica in Mexico.
Analysts note that the team’s recent African Cup of Nations performances—consistently reaching the quarter‑finals—suggest they can compete with higher‑ranked opponents. If the defensive unit maintains its organization and the forwards capitalize on chances, the DRC could surprise many in North America.
Sources: FIFA World Cup qualifying archives (2023‑2025), CAF match reports, Reuters article “DRC secures historic World Cup berth” (November 2024).
Uzbekistan: A Newcomer with Pedigree
Uzbekistan’s admission to FIFA in 1992 followed the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Although still regarded as a minnow on the global stage, the side has shown steady progress in Asian competition. Ranked 50th in the latest FIFA rankings, Uzbekistan has reached the quarter‑finals of the AFC Asian Cup in six of the last eight editions and claimed fourth place in 2011.
The team’s most notable asset is its coach, Fabio Cannavaro. The 2006 World Cup‑winning defender brings a reputation for defensive organization, having previously won league titles in China. His tactical acumen was pivotal in guiding Uzbekistan through a challenging qualifying campaign that included victories over Syria and the Philippines.
In attack, the spotlight falls on 22‑year‑old centre‑back Abdukodir Khusanov of Manchester City. Though primarily a defender, his comfort on the ball and ability to initiate play from the back have made him a key outlet for Uzbekistan’s build‑up play.
While advancing beyond the group stage will be a significant challenge, Uzbekistan’s disciplined approach and recent continental successes give them a credible chance to cause an upset.
Sources: FIFA ranking data (October 2024), AFC Asian Cup technical reports, Manchester City player profile (official site, 2024), interview with Fabio Cannavaro (The Guardian, September 2024).
