World Cup 2026 power rankings: Counting down all 48 teams
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World Cup 2026 power rankings: Counting down all 48 teams
Jon Arnold, USA TODAY·USA TODAY Sports
·
4 min read
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The2026 World Cupis nearly here, and it's bigger than ever.
With an expanded field, more teams from every region had an opportunity to reach the finals. As the matches approach, USA TODAY Sports ranks all 48 teams from least likely to lift the trophy to most likely.
Since narrowly securing qualification,Qatarhasn't won a match. Preparations being disrupted by the war inIranis understandable, but it's tough to see them delivering a better showing than 2022.
Another new face in the World Cup, the Blue Sharks are going to need some heroic performances from veteran players to get anything out of their first trip to the biggest stage.
Though they were defensively stout, results in 2025 were not positive for Darren Bazeley's squad, which will also have to prove it can defend against top teams.
Spain– 17th appearance
(Pablo Morano, REUTERS)
Brazil– 23rd appearance
(Ryan Pierse, Getty Images)
United States of America– 12th appearance
(Adam Cairns, Columbus Dispatch)
Mexico– 18th appearance
(Omar Vega, Getty Images)
England– 17th appearance
(GINTS IVUSKANS, AFP via Getty Images)
Portugal– ninth appearance
(Charles McQuillan, Getty Images)
France– 17th appearance
(Franco Arland, Getty Images)
Iran– seventh appearance
(Majid Asgaripour, via REUTERS)
Switzerland– 13th appearance
(Jonas Ekstromer, Reuters)
Croatia– seventh appearance
(DAMIR SENCAR, AFP via Getty Images)
Australia– seventh appearance
(Robert Cianflone, Getty Images)
Morocco– seventh appearance
(ABDEL MAJID BZIOUAT, AFP via Getty Images)
Austria– eighth appearance
(GEORG HOCHMUTH, APA/AFP via Getty Images)
Ecuador– fifth appearance
(Omar Vega, Getty Images)
Senegal– fourth appearance
(IAN KINGTON, AFP via Getty Images)
South Korea– 12th appearance
(Chung Sung-Jun, Getty Images)
Japan– eighth appearance
(Koji Watanabe, Getty Images)
Colombia– seventh appearance
(Jordan Bank, Getty Images)
Netherlands– 12th appearance
(Piroschka Van De Wouw, REUTERS)
Germany– 21st appearance
(Lisi Niesner, REUTERS)
Belgium– 15th appearance
(Yves Herman, Reuters)
Canada– third appearance
(Dan Istitene, Getty Images)
Saudi Arabia– seventh appearance
(Issei Kato, REUTERS)
Uzbekistan–first appearance
(Maxim Shemetov, REUTERS)
Jordan– first appearance
(Thaier Al-Sudani, REUTERS)
Tunisia– seventh appearance
(Zoubeir Souissi, REUTERS)
South Africa– fourth appearance
(Esa Alexander, REUTERS)
Ivory Coast– fourth appearance
(Luc Gnago, REUTERS)
Scotland– ninth appearance
(Russell Cheyne, REUTERS)
Algeria– fifth appearance
(JOHAN NILSSON, TT News Agency/AFP via Getty Images)
Central America's only representative in the World Cup would be higher were it not for two big blows: Uncertainty around do-it-all midfielder Coco Carrasquilla's fitness and getting drawn into a group withEngland,CroatiaandGhana.
The draw for our lowest-ranked European team is favorable, but they'll still need to muck things up and get a bit fortunate in front of goal to move on.
More than just a remarkable story,Haitiblend veteran national team players with new recruits who play in top European leagues.
36. Iran
A clear second-best in Asian qualification, it will be difficult to block out the off-field situation, even if staying in Tijuana is an elegant solution to the 'problem' of the team not spending the night in the U.S.
They clawed their way pastItalyto get to the World Cup after a pair of tight March playoff games. Sergej Barbarez's style of aggressive defending may see them grind out a point or two, but perhaps not many more.
Algeriamade quick work of its World Cup qualification group and outlasted fellow World Cup team DR Congo at the AFCON in the first knockout game, but the ceiling isn't as high as Fennecs teams of the past.
Gustavo Alfaro's teams are rarely thrilling to watch, but he has a system that works with Paraguay - and even has seen a few attackers start to produce as well.
31. DR Congo
The staunch defense will cause problems in their group, but even with a few top-level attackers, the scoring struggles can't be ignored.
Qualification was sensational, andScott McTominaycontinues to star, but there still seems to be a limit to where this team's talent can take it.
Scotland's midfielder #04 Scott McTominay grabs the corner flag as Scotland's midfielder #23 Kenny McLean celebrates with teammates after scoring his long-range last-kick of the game goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European qualification football match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park in Glasgow on November 18, 2025. Scotland scored two dramatic stoppage-time goals to beat 10-man Denmark 4-2 on Tuesday and reach the World Cup for the first time since 1998.
(ANDY BUCHANAN, AFP via Getty Images)
Scotland's striker #20 Lawrence Shankland celebrates on the pitch after the FIFA World Cup 2026 European qualification football match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park in Glasgow on November 18, 2025. Scotland scored two dramatic stoppage-time goals to beat 10-man Denmark 4-2 on Tuesday and reach the World Cup for the first time since 1998.
(ANDY BUCHANAN, AFP via Getty Images)
Kenny McLean of Scotland celebrates scoring his team's fourth goal with teammates during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland.
(Stu Forster, Getty Images)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Lewis Ferguson celebrates with Scott McTominay during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Kenny McLean of Scotland celebrates scoring his team's fourth goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
(Stu Forster, Getty Images)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Andy Robertson of Scotland celebrates his team's fourth goal scored by Kenny McLean of Scotland (not pictured) during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
(Stu Forster, Getty Images)
Andy Robertson of Scotland celebrates his team's fourth goal scored by Kenny McLean of Scotland (not pictured) during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland.
(Stu Forster, Getty Images)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Scott McTominay of Scotland celebrates his team's fourth goal scored by Kenny McLean of Scotland (not pictured) during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
(Stu Forster, Getty Images)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Kieran Tierney of Scotland celebrates scoring his team's third goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Scott McTominay of Scotland celebrates with Steve Clarke, Head Coach of Scotland, during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Kieran Tierney of Scotland celebrates scoring his team's third goal with teammates during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Scotland Fans celebrate after the team's victory during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
(Stu Forster, Getty Images)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: A Scotland Fan celebrates after the team's victory during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: John McGinn of Scotland celebrates after the team's victory during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Lyndon Dykes of Scotland celebrates after the team's victory during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Scott McTominay of Scotland celebrates after the team's victory with teammate Lewis Ferguson during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Aaron Hickey of Scotland celebrates after the team's victory during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Kieran Tierney of Scotland (obscured) celebrates scoring his team's third goal with teammates during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Lyndon Dykes and Andy Robertson of Scotland celebrate after the team's victory during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Steven Naismith Assistant Coach, celebrates with Steve Clarke, Head Coach of Scotland, during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Scott McTominay of Scotland celebrates with Steve Clarke, Head Coach of Scotland, during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
1/21
See jubilant scenes as Scotland qualifies for first World Cup since 1998 in dramatic win
Scotland's midfielder #04 Scott McTominay grabs the corner flag as Scotland's midfielder #23 Kenny McLean celebrates with teammates after scoring his long-range last-kick of the game goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European qualification football match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park in Glasgow on November 18, 2025. Scotland scored two dramatic stoppage-time goals to beat 10-man Denmark 4-2 on Tuesday and reach the World Cup for the first time since 1998.
(ANDY BUCHANAN, AFP via Getty Images)
1/21
See jubilant scenes as Scotland qualifies for first World Cup since 1998 in dramatic win
Scotland's midfielder #04 Scott McTominay grabs the corner flag as Scotland's midfielder #23 Kenny McLean celebrates with teammates after scoring his long-range last-kick of the game goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European qualification football match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park in Glasgow on November 18, 2025. Scotland scored two dramatic stoppage-time goals to beat 10-man Denmark 4-2 on Tuesday and reach the World Cup for the first time since 1998.
(ANDY BUCHANAN, AFP via Getty Images)
2/21
See jubilant scenes as Scotland qualifies for first World Cup since 1998 in dramatic win
Scotland's striker #20 Lawrence Shankland celebrates on the pitch after the FIFA World Cup 2026 European qualification football match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park in Glasgow on November 18, 2025. Scotland scored two dramatic stoppage-time goals to beat 10-man Denmark 4-2 on Tuesday and reach the World Cup for the first time since 1998.
(ANDY BUCHANAN, AFP via Getty Images)
3/21
See jubilant scenes as Scotland qualifies for first World Cup since 1998 in dramatic win
Kenny McLean of Scotland celebrates scoring his team's fourth goal with teammates during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland.
(Stu Forster, Getty Images)
4/21
See jubilant scenes as Scotland qualifies for first World Cup since 1998 in dramatic win
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Lewis Ferguson celebrates with Scott McTominay during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
5/21
See jubilant scenes as Scotland qualifies for first World Cup since 1998 in dramatic win
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Kenny McLean of Scotland celebrates scoring his team's fourth goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
(Stu Forster, Getty Images)
6/21
See jubilant scenes as Scotland qualifies for first World Cup since 1998 in dramatic win
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Andy Robertson of Scotland celebrates his team's fourth goal scored by Kenny McLean of Scotland (not pictured) during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
(Stu Forster, Getty Images)
7/21
See jubilant scenes as Scotland qualifies for first World Cup since 1998 in dramatic win
Andy Robertson of Scotland celebrates his team's fourth goal scored by Kenny McLean of Scotland (not pictured) during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland.
(Stu Forster, Getty Images)
8/21
See jubilant scenes as Scotland qualifies for first World Cup since 1998 in dramatic win
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Scott McTominay of Scotland celebrates his team's fourth goal scored by Kenny McLean of Scotland (not pictured) during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
(Stu Forster, Getty Images)
9/21
See jubilant scenes as Scotland qualifies for first World Cup since 1998 in dramatic win
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Kieran Tierney of Scotland celebrates scoring his team's third goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
10/21
See jubilant scenes as Scotland qualifies for first World Cup since 1998 in dramatic win
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Scott McTominay of Scotland celebrates with Steve Clarke, Head Coach of Scotland, during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
11/21
See jubilant scenes as Scotland qualifies for first World Cup since 1998 in dramatic win
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Kieran Tierney of Scotland celebrates scoring his team's third goal with teammates during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
12/21
See jubilant scenes as Scotland qualifies for first World Cup since 1998 in dramatic win
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Scotland Fans celebrate after the team's victory during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
(Stu Forster, Getty Images)
13/21
See jubilant scenes as Scotland qualifies for first World Cup since 1998 in dramatic win
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: A Scotland Fan celebrates after the team's victory during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
14/21
See jubilant scenes as Scotland qualifies for first World Cup since 1998 in dramatic win
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: John McGinn of Scotland celebrates after the team's victory during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
15/21
See jubilant scenes as Scotland qualifies for first World Cup since 1998 in dramatic win
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Lyndon Dykes of Scotland celebrates after the team's victory during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
16/21
See jubilant scenes as Scotland qualifies for first World Cup since 1998 in dramatic win
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Scott McTominay of Scotland celebrates after the team's victory with teammate Lewis Ferguson during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
17/21
See jubilant scenes as Scotland qualifies for first World Cup since 1998 in dramatic win
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Aaron Hickey of Scotland celebrates after the team's victory during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
18/21
See jubilant scenes as Scotland qualifies for first World Cup since 1998 in dramatic win
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Kieran Tierney of Scotland (obscured) celebrates scoring his team's third goal with teammates during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
19/21
See jubilant scenes as Scotland qualifies for first World Cup since 1998 in dramatic win
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Lyndon Dykes and Andy Robertson of Scotland celebrate after the team's victory during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
20/21
See jubilant scenes as Scotland qualifies for first World Cup since 1998 in dramatic win
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Steven Naismith Assistant Coach, celebrates with Steve Clarke, Head Coach of Scotland, during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
(Ian MacNicol, Getty Images)
21/21
See jubilant scenes as Scotland qualifies for first World Cup since 1998 in dramatic win
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 18: Scott McTominay of Scotland celebrates with Steve Clarke, Head Coach of Scotland, during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Scotland and Denmark at Hampden Park on November 18, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
The defense looks dialed in, but ifMo Salahdoesn't score, then it often feels like no one will, which was the issue in AFCON defeats toSenegalin the semifinals andNigeriain the third-place game.
Which Sweden is the real team? The one that slumped to a last-place spot in World Cup qualification? Or the one that made relatively work of Ukraine and Poland in the playoff to get here behind a player like Viktor Gyökeres?
Cristian Volpato's inclusion should boostAustraliarather than cause friction, but they're still yet to excel against top teams.
26. Ghana
The decision to bring in Carlos Queiroz will certainly lead to a certain style of soccer. It won't be fun to watch for neutrals, but perhaps it will suit a Ghana squad far too leaky at the back in the pre-tournament friendly matches.
While heavily dependent onSon Heung-MinandLee Kang-In, the path is there for Korea to come out of the group in Mexico - and perhaps make some noise after.
Manager Emerse Fae gets a few of the regulars who missed the African Cup of Nations back, and the March window went well. The group opener againstEcuadoris crucial.
22. Turkey
There's no doubt the creativity is present in this squad withArda Gulerand Kenan Yıldız, but with a converted center forward playing as a No. 9, manager Vincenzo Montella has had to settle for a lot of 1-0 results.
The North American co-hosts would be much higher if Jesse Marsch could have confidence his team is fully fit. As it stands, too many key players ended the season with their clubs on the injury report to feel great about a deep run.
A team that almost always pulls in the same direction experienced some dissent, but Marcelo Bielsa still brings a talented group back to North America after their third-place finish at the 2024 Copa América.
The AFCON champions on paper, the performances during the tournament weren't all that convincing. Plus, a new manager leading the way after Walid Regragui left in March will have to work quickly to have any hope of replicating 2022's magic.
A good draw and a balanced team set Switzerland up to be a potential dark horse in the tournament, especially if forwardBreel Embolocan get hot.
17. Croatia
After podium finishes in the past two editions of the tournament, bet against Croatia at your own peril. But even with a strong, young defense,Luka Modricat 40 andIvan Perisicat 37 have to slow down at some point.
James Rodriguezwon't be named best player of the tournament like he was in the 2024 Copa América as the Cafeteros made the final of the South American championship, but with Luis Díaz leading the attack and the same back line returning, they don't need him to shoulder as much of the load.
Most fans knowErling Haalandand Martin Ødegaard. If casuals come away learning the names of defenders, it will mean a successful tournament.
13. United States
The hosts have the potential to win over the nation and ride fan support to the best finish in the modern era. They also could totally collapse like they did in both March friendly matches and crash out in the group stage.
The U.S. men's national team World Cup roster is out, for real this time. Three days after the team's squad was fully leaked, USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino officially revealed his 26-man roster for the 2026 tournament on Tuesday, May 26. The release confirmed the leak was, in fact, accurate, as the 26 names matched the 26 The Guardian first reported over the weekend. The names didn't feature too many surprises, though there were still one or two decisions that could be characterized as head-scratching. "We are confident this is the best group of 26 players to help us achieve success at the World Cup," Pochettino said. See who made the team:
Christian Pulisic, attacking midfielder/winger
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)
Weston McKennie, midfielder
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)
Tyler Adams, midfielder
(Vincent Carchietta, Imagn Images)
Antonee Robinson, defender
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)
Chris Brady, goalkeeper
(Icon Sportswire, Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Joe Scally, defender
(Eric Canha, Imagn Images)
Haji Wright, striker
(Dylan Buell, Getty Images)
Miles Robinson, defender
(Megan Briggs, Getty Images)
Mark McKenzie, defender
(Johnnie Izquierdo, Getty Images)
Matt Turner, goalkeeper
(Troy Taormina, Imagn Images)
Chris Richards, defender
(Maria Lysaker, Imagn Images)
Alex Freeman, defender
(Troy Taormina, Imagn Images)
Tim Ream, defender
(Troy Taormina, Imagn Images)
Sergino Dest, defender
(Vincent Carchietta, Imagn Images)
Tim Weah, midfielder
(Vincent Carchietta, Imagn Images)
Alejandro Zendejas, attacking midfielder/winger
(Joseph Maiorana, Imagn Images)
Sebastian Berhalter, midfielder
(Nathan Ray Seebeck, Imagn Images)
Brenden Aaronson, attacking midfielder/winger
(Nathan Ray Seebeck, Imagn Images)
Auston Trusty, defender
(Nathan Ray Seebeck, Imagn Images)
Malik Tillman, attacking midfielder/winger
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)
Folarin Balogun, striker
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)
Ricardo Pepi, striker
(Jared C. Tilton, Getty Images)
Matt Freese, goalkeeper
(Dale Zanine, Imagn Images)
Max Arfsten, defender
(Dale Zanine, Imagn Images)
Gio Reyna, Attacking midfielder/winger
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)
Cristian Roldan, midfielder
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)
1/26
Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
The U.S. men's national team World Cup roster is out, for real this time. Three days after the team's squad was fully leaked, USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino officially revealed his 26-man roster for the 2026 tournament on Tuesday, May 26. The release confirmed the leak was, in fact, accurate, as the 26 names matched the 26 The Guardian first reported over the weekend. The names didn't feature too many surprises, though there were still one or two decisions that could be characterized as head-scratching. "We are confident this is the best group of 26 players to help us achieve success at the World Cup," Pochettino said. See who made the team:
Christian Pulisic, attacking midfielder/winger
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)
1/26
Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
The U.S. men's national team World Cup roster is out, for real this time. Three days after the team's squad was fully leaked, USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino officially revealed his 26-man roster for the 2026 tournament on Tuesday, May 26. The release confirmed the leak was, in fact, accurate, as the 26 names matched the 26 The Guardian first reported over the weekend. The names didn't feature too many surprises, though there were still one or two decisions that could be characterized as head-scratching. "We are confident this is the best group of 26 players to help us achieve success at the World Cup," Pochettino said. See who made the team:
Christian Pulisic, attacking midfielder/winger
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)
2/26
Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Weston McKennie, midfielder
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)
3/26
Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Tyler Adams, midfielder
(Vincent Carchietta, Imagn Images)
4/26
Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Antonee Robinson, defender
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)
5/26
Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Chris Brady, goalkeeper
(Icon Sportswire, Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
6/26
Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Joe Scally, defender
(Eric Canha, Imagn Images)
7/26
Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Haji Wright, striker
(Dylan Buell, Getty Images)
8/26
Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Miles Robinson, defender
(Megan Briggs, Getty Images)
9/26
Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Mark McKenzie, defender
(Johnnie Izquierdo, Getty Images)
10/26
Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Matt Turner, goalkeeper
(Troy Taormina, Imagn Images)
11/26
Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Chris Richards, defender
(Maria Lysaker, Imagn Images)
12/26
Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Alex Freeman, defender
(Troy Taormina, Imagn Images)
13/26
Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Tim Ream, defender
(Troy Taormina, Imagn Images)
14/26
Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Sergino Dest, defender
(Vincent Carchietta, Imagn Images)
15/26
Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Tim Weah, midfielder
(Vincent Carchietta, Imagn Images)
16/26
Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Alejandro Zendejas, attacking midfielder/winger
(Joseph Maiorana, Imagn Images)
17/26
Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Sebastian Berhalter, midfielder
(Nathan Ray Seebeck, Imagn Images)
18/26
Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Brenden Aaronson, attacking midfielder/winger
(Nathan Ray Seebeck, Imagn Images)
19/26
Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Auston Trusty, defender
(Nathan Ray Seebeck, Imagn Images)
20/26
Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Malik Tillman, attacking midfielder/winger
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)
21/26
Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Folarin Balogun, striker
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)
22/26
Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Ricardo Pepi, striker
(Jared C. Tilton, Getty Images)
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Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Matt Freese, goalkeeper
(Dale Zanine, Imagn Images)
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Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Max Arfsten, defender
(Dale Zanine, Imagn Images)
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Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Gio Reyna, Attacking midfielder/winger
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)
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Who made the USMNT World Cup roster? Meet full 26-man USA squad
Cristian Roldan, midfielder
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)
12. Mexico
Hopes aren't high forEl Tri, but if they can win the group they'll stay in Mexico for the next two (potential) knockout matches - a huge boost given the crowd and the altitude.
Jeremy Dokutortured the United States and Mexico during the March window and with Kevin De Bryune andYouri Tielemansoperating behind him, it's a Belgian team that once again looks like they could make a run.
10. Ecuador
What's not to like? Sebastián Beccacece has a group of dynamic attackers and top-level defenders, many of whom came through the Independiente del Valle academy. Veteran forwardEnner Valenciamust be effective in front of goal, though.
9. Senegal
Reports of dissent between manager Pape Thiaw and the federation are concerning, but the vibes were fantastic in March when Senegal showed off its African Cup of Nations trophy inFrance, then back home. Africa's best hope, the back line will fluster even top attacks.
Cristiano Ronaldocan be a contributor, but the talent around him is perhaps even more important.Bernardo Silva,Joao Felixand Vitinha all will be more critical to their long-term success.
Carlo Ancelotti has a less talented team than most Brazil squads of old - and includingNeymarin the team was only further proof. Yet, even a 'bad' Brazil still has a lot of merit.
The Netherlands has lost once since exiting Euro 2024 in the semifinals, with its reliable back line shutting teams down.Memphis Depayis a wild card, but if he gets hot things could go very well.
4. England
With Thomas Tuchel managing the squad andHarry Kanein superb form in front of goal, an England triumph could come by way of Munich.
The defending champions still boastLionel Messi,Julian Alvarez, Dibu Martinez and other stars of 2022, but there are too many questions about fitness - including Messi's - to see them top the list.
2. France
Dembélé, Mbappé, Tchouaméni,Upamecano, the names go on for France. Didier Deschamps needs to keep the vibes high, and the sky is clearly the limit.
Getting a clean bill of health forLamine Yamalwould solidify this ranking, but the current European champions haven't lost in 28 matches - a streak that is impossible to ignore.