2026 World Cup Predictions: Group Analysis and Must-See Matches Revealed
December 6, 2025 04:00Explore the breakdown of each group at the 2026 World Cup with top matches to watch and key predictions by ESPN's writers.
Explore the breakdown of each group at the 2026 World Cup with top matches to watch and key predictions by ESPN's writers.
The 2026 World Cup playoff draws have been announced, with teams from Europe and intercontinental playoffs vying for six remaining spots. Expert predictions on who will advance unveiled.
A comprehensive ranking of 88 national teams for the 2026 FIFA World Cup based on talent and form, with France topping the list followed by Spain and England.
Spain's 6-0 victory over Turkey showcases their formidable strength, with Pedri and Lamine Yamal shining. Can anyone halt their path to World Cup glory?
Manchester United continues to seek exit routes for Tyrell Malacia post-deadline, with the defender failing to secure a move on deadline day. The club is open to allowing him to move to a country with an extended transfer window.
Manchester United is actively working on a deal to acquire Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba, with rumors of a potential record-breaking transfer fee. Stay updated on the latest transfer news.
Real Madrid and Barcelona eye Crystal Palace's Marc Guéhi after Liverpool transfer collapses. Get the latest transfer rumors and gossip in the football world.
Galatasaray considers signing Manchester City's Ederson along with two other goalkeepers as they aim to strengthen their squad for the Champions League.
Al Hassan Toure signs with Sydney FC while Chris Long moves to Brisbane Roar, bolstering the A-League Men's teams. Toure returns from FC Tulsa, and Long brings experience from Burnley.
Iran clinches the last spot in the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup after a 2-1 victory over Jordan, joining other qualified nations for the tournament hosted by Australia.
Boston Legacy FC made a significant move by signing Mali striker Aïssata Traoré, becoming the NWSL's first player from Mali.
Galatasaray is eyeing Manchester City's Ilkay Gündogan, considering a move if he becomes available. The 34-year-old midfielder has strong ties to Turkey and could be open to a transfer.
Thomas Partey is set to depart Arsenal as his contract expires, with negotiations for renewal at a deadlock. The Ghanaian midfielder has drawn interest from other clubs, including those in Turkey and Barcelona.
Leroy Sane bids farewell to Bayern Munich fans on social media as he prepares to move to Galatasaray. The German winger will join the Turkish side as a free agent.
The USMNT suffers a 2-1 defeat against Turkey in a pre-Gold Cup friendly, raising concerns about squad depth and performance ahead of the tournament.
Turkey defeated the United States 2-1 in a rainy friendly, marking the USMNT's third consecutive loss as Arda Güler and Kerem Aktürkoglu scored crucial goals. Coach Mauricio Pochettino revamped the team ahead of upcoming matches.
International researchers are closer to identifying potential remains of Noah's Ark at the Durupınar site in Eastern Turkey, with recent soil samples suggesting the presence of 'ancient wood.'
Tourists are taking historical cobblestones, stones, and signs as souvenirs, causing damage and facing legal consequences in various European destinations like Bruges and Sardinia.
US Men's National Team coach Pochettino emphasizes focus and commitment as the team prepares for the Concacaf Gold Cup following a disappointing Nations League finish. Key players like Pulisic will miss the tournament.
The family of Beth Martin (28) was horrified to discover her heart missing during autopsy in Turkey, sparking a search for answers.
Israeli's express safety concerns as Western leaders falsely accuse them of genocide, leading to increased hatred and security threats worldwide.
Iran's leader, Ali Khamenei, expresses pessimism over nuclear negotiations with the US, citing disagreements on uranium enrichment. The US aims to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.
EU officials, including Ursula von der Leyen, stay silent on Trump-Putin talks regarding Ukraine. Trump claims Russia and Ukraine will negotiate peace immediately, while EU vows to support Zelenski for sustainable peace.
Analysis of Trump's foreign policy shows a mix of peace efforts, military shows of strength, and dismantling of soft power tools like USAID, potentially allowing China's CIDCA to rise.
Turkish authorities release Joakim Medin, a Swedish journalist convicted of insulting President Erdogan, following international pressure. Medin, arrested in Istanbul, reported on protests against Erdogan's actions.
Iran signals willingness to dispose of high-enriched uranium in exchange for lifting US economic sanctions. The proposal includes commitments to never develop nuclear weapons and allow international inspections.
Passengers on Turkish airlines face fines for standing up early after landing. Will similar measures be taken in the Netherlands? Airlines respond.
Donald Trump receives billions in investments, arms deals, and even a private jet as a gift from Arab Gulf states during his visit to the Middle East.
April 2024 ranks as the second warmest on record with an average global temperature of 14.96 degrees Celsius, only 0.07 degrees cooler than the warmest April. The European climate service Copernicus highlights the impact of rising temperatures.
Israel expresses shock over US deal with Houthi rebels as drone from the east (likely Yemen) shot down. Tensions rise as the US refrains from attacking Houthis, impacting Israeli security concerns.