With 46 nations and 100+ matches across the USA, Canada and Mexico, 2026 opens big markets for futures and match bets. Expect England, Brazil and France to be early favourites; back England or Brazil in outright markets, while taking value on Portugal and Spain for late-stage props. Consider wagering on high-scoring group games and favorites to reach the quarterfinals as safer long-term plays.
2026 World Cup Preview: A Mammoth Tournament Set to Electrify North America
The World Cup returns in June 2026 with an expanded 46-team format across three host countries, promising one of the biggest and most complex editions in history. Over 100 matches will unfold in stadiums from Canada to Mexico and the United States, delivering a global football festival that stretches five weeks before a MetLife Stadium finale in New Jersey.
Hosts, Dates and Tournament Scale
The tournament kicks off on June 11, staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico, and will feature 46 nations in the finals. The schedule’s scale — more teams and more fixtures than previous editions — creates fresh logistical challenges and broader TV and betting markets.
Defending Champions and Top Contenders
Argentina arrive as reigning champions after their recent success, but a host of heavyweight nations will be gunning for the trophy. England, under Thomas Tuchel, are widely fancied; Brazil, coached by Carlo Ancelotti, boast deep talent and remain perennial favourites; France and Germany also carry strong squads and realistic title ambitions.
Stars and Storylines to Watch
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal may view this as a final shot at World Cup glory for the legend, while Spain — as recent European champions — will target consistency on the global stage. The tournament offers a unique blend of established superpowers and reshaped squads, setting the scene for compelling individual and team narratives.
Debutants and Dark Horses
Four nations will make first-time World Cup appearances: Cape Verde, Curacao, Jordan and Uzbekistan.
Their presence expands the competitive map and injects unpredictability into the group stages, opening opportunities for upsets and value bets for bettors seeking underdog returns.
What This Means for Punters
The enlarged format widens markets for futures, match bets and player props.
Early betting markets will likely favour England, Brazil and France for outright wins, while Portugal and Spain could offer mid-odds value for late-stage runs.
The increased number of group matches suggests more high-scoring fixtures and hedging opportunities; bettors should weigh tournament depth and squad rotation when evaluating long-term wagers.
USMNT World Cup roster watch: The gap is widening between Malik Tillman and Gio Reyna
The biggest World Cup will kick-off in the summer with a number of nations holding a golden generation of players looking to be victorious on the biggest stage in football
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