2026 World Cup kicks off with Spain as favourites and expanded 48-team drama
The 2026 World Cup will kick off this summer across the USA, Mexico, and Canada. Running for five weeks, the tournament will feature 48 teams competing for the title. Spain enters as the bookmakers' favourite, priced at 4/1 to lift the trophy. Argentina and Brazil have both landed in groups considered less challenging. Their paths to the knockout stages appear smoother compared to other top-ranked sides. Argentina's qualification campaign saw Lautaro Martinez net four crucial goals.
Barcelona's Lamine Yamal has been in fine form, scoring 21 times in 40 matches this season. Teammate Raphinha has added 19 goals of his own. Meanwhile, Lautaro Martinez has found the net 18 times in 35 games for Inter Milan. The tournament will showcase some of the world's deadliest strikers. Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappé, and Erling Haaland are all expected to lead their nations' attacks.
With Spain leading the odds and Argentina, Brazil, and other strong sides progressing from their groups, the stage is set for a competitive tournament. The expanded 48-team format will bring more matches and a wider range of contenders. Fans can expect high-scoring games from the likes of Yamal, Raphinha, and Martinez.
