From one to 48
All 48 teams in the 2026 men's World Cup have played their first match. Experts from BBC Sport and NBC Sports have released rankings based on team strength and win probability. Argentina is not the top ranked team according to the BBC.
What changed
The 2026 World Cup now features 48 teams and initial rankings have been published.
Live updates
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World Cup rankings released after first round of play
confidence 100%All 48 teams in the 2026 men's World Cup have played their first match. Experts from BBC Sport and NBC Sports have released rankings based on team strength and win probability. Argentina is not the top ranked team according to the BBC.
What's confirmed:
- There are 48 teams in the 2026 men's World Cup.
- South Korea lost 1-0 to Mexico.
Still unconfirmed:
- Teen gambling cases are rising in South Korea.
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South Korea Suffers First Loss to Mexico in Group A
confidence 100%South Korea lost to Mexico on June 18 in Zapopan. This marks the first loss for the team in Group A.
What's confirmed:
- South Korea lost to Mexico in Zapopan on June 18.
- This was the first loss for South Korea in Group A.
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World Cup 2026 Power Rankings After Initial Matches
confidence 80%Analysts have ranked all 48 teams following the first round of fixtures. France holds the top spot while Argentina and the USMNT have seen strong starts. England won their opening match to maintain their status.
What's confirmed:
- The 2026 World Cup features 48 teams.
- England won their first match of the tournament.
Still unconfirmed:
- France is currently ranked first in power rankings.
- Argentina is surging behind Lionel Messi.
- The USMNT has started the tournament strong.
- Portugal is experiencing a decline in rankings.