Guest written by Brandon Evans
The FIFA World Cup 2026™ Round of 32 is HERE! But as we get into the business end of the tournament, who are the CONTENDERS and who are the PRETENDERS? Of course, the World Cup is extremely unpredictable, but who are the teams that look like they will go far, and which will go home after this round?
Contenders
Netherlands
On paper, the Netherlands has one of, if not the absolute best defense in the world, but you wouldn’t expect that by looking at the expansive attacking football on display from the Dutch thus far. Having scored 10 goals across three games, this is a team you cannot take lightly. They have a really tough matchup against Morocco in the Round of 32, but could this be the year the Dutch finally win it all?
Morocco
Speaking of Morocco, they have arguably been the best team outside of Europe and South America so far in this tournament. With their solid defense and technical midfield, they were able to grind out two great performances against Brazil and Scotland before showing they do have an attacking prowess by dropping four goals on Haiti. If they defeat the Netherlands, it will be a massive statement win. Can Morocco bridge the gap and be the first African and Arab team to win the World Cup?
Brazil
Simply put, Brazil is Brazil. They have five stars on the badge for a reason. While their performance against Morocco wasn’t the best, and this squad doesn’t compare to previous generations, these negative feelings stem from the uniquely high expectations for Brazil. But you can never count out Brazil, especially with Carlo Ancelotti at the helm, one of the best tournament managers ever, and Vinícius Júnior playing in the form he is in. Can Brazil make it six in 2026?
Pretenders
Germany
This might be a little harsh, especially given that Germany topped their group and scored 10 goals across their three matches, but indeed, we haven’t seen the best of Germany at this World Cup. While they did score seven against Curaçao, that was a game they were heavily expected to win. In their next match, they were on the verge of a surprise loss against the Ivory Coast, only to be saved by two late goals from Deniz Undav. They finished their group campaign losing to Ecuador. While Germany is a nation with a strong footballing history, it seems they benefited from a relatively easy draw. Should they advance from the Round of 32, a matchup with France will likely be on the cards, which should be the end of their campaign.
Sweden
Sweden has probably been the most inconsistent team this World Cup. In a sense of irony, the Swedes comprehensively beat Tunisia 5-1 only to get obliterated by the Dutch in the next match, by the same exact scoreline. While Japan outplayed them, they did just enough to grab a draw and punch their ticket to the Round of 32. With attacking stars like Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyökeres, and Anthony Elanga, Sweden will no doubt be a threat to anyone. But the other side of the pitch is where they have major issues, conceding seven goals at this tournament after just three games. Once they face another big team with a competent enough defensive structure, Sweden will likely get exposed again.
Who do you think can go far at this World Cup? Visit your local Soccer Post and pick up a jersey of any of these nations to support your favorite team!
