PHILADELPHIA TAKES THE GLOBAL STAGE
LOCAL ATHLETES SHOWCASE EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA’S THRIVING SOCCER CULTURE
PHILADELPHIA’S JOURNEY TO WORLD CUP HOST
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The Wait is Over
THE 2026 FIFA WORLD CUP IS UPON US
Chris Branscome Chief Executive Officer, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Gianni Infantino President, FIFA
Welcome to this special World Cup edition of Touchline. I’m honored to say that Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer has played a meaningful role in Philadelphia’s 2026 FIFA World Cup efforts. We were a founding partner in the bid beginning in 2017, when U.S. Soccer announced the joint effort with Canada and Mexico. This is a remarkable moment for our sport as we welcome friends from around the world to celebrate what Pelé so eloquently called “the beautiful game.”
People across Eastern Pennsylvania, along with our friends and colleagues in Delaware and New Jersey, have been incredibly supportive throughout the bid process and the lead-up to this month’s matches. I want to thank the clubs, teams, and individuals who volunteered at the many events we hosted, took part in rallies, commercial shoots, and clinics, and joined the thousands who lined the streets in September 2021 to welcome the FIFA delegation to Philadelphia. The bid would not have succeeded without your support.
Now we turn our attention to hosting and enjoying the world’s greatest sporting event. I know you will welcome the expected 700,000 visitors with open arms and show them that Pennsylvania is a wonderful place to visit and one of the best soccer states in the country. More specifically, we will show the world that Philadelphia is a truly international city and unquestionably a soccer city on par with others around the globe. We have more than 150 years of soccer history in this area, and we remain deeply connected to the traditions and growth of the game in the United States.
CREDITS PUBLISHED BY:
Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer
4070 Butler Pike, Suite 100 Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462
Phone: 610-238-9966
Fax: 610-238-9933
E-mail: info@EPYSA.org Website: EPYSA.org
EXECUTIVE BOARD
President - Lennie Brown
First Vice PresidentMelissa Murphy Weber
Second Vice PresidentBill Fuller
Treasurer- Jim Brown
SecretaryBill Ross
At-Large - Tim Murphy
At-Large - John Mickle
District 1 CommissionerJeff Tener
District 2 CommissionerRachel Gallegos
District 3 CommissionerGary Blockus
District 4 CommissionerEric McKitish
District 5 CommissionerScott Merritt
District 6 CommissionerChristina Loss
OFFICE STAFF
Chief Executive Officer –Chris Branscome
Chief Operating Officer –Kelly Connor
Technical Director –Gary Stephenson
Assistant Technical Director –Fernando Carrizo
As many of you plan local watch parties and celebrations, I encourage you to spend time in the city during the tournament. Whether or not you have tickets, there will be plenty of fun and activities. The FIFA Fan Festival at Lemon Hill, just above the iconic Boathouse Row, will be the center of the celebration outside the stadium. There will be plenty of food, drinks, and entertainment, along with opportunities to watch the day’s matches with new friends from around the world and across the United States. Beyond Lemon Hill, the cultures of visiting teams and their supporters will be on full display throughout the city. The Brazilians will no doubt be a major attraction, but the French, Croatians, Ghanaians, and many others will bring excitement as well. And throughout the tournament, Ivory Coast will train at Subaru Park.
This is an opportunity of a lifetime. The 1994 World Cup was a defining moment for soccer in the United States. The 2026 tournament may be even bigger—and this time, it’s in our backyard. Enjoy every moment of it. And to our visiting friends: welcome, and enjoy your stay in the city where America began 250 years ago.
Assistant Technical Director –Anna-Kate DePaolo
Director of Operations –Leo Kelly
Director of Registration Services –Meghan Petroski
Director of Soccer Development –JT Dorsey
Outreach/Grassroots Soccer Specialist –Mallory O’Riordan
Director of Competitions –David Jones
Director of Communications –Morgan Weindel
Director of Marketing & Events –Karly Kaminsky
TOUCHLINE
Editor-in-Chief –Chris Branscome
Editors – Catie Branscome, Morgan Weindel
Photography – Catie Branscome
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A SOCCER CITY
Philadelphia’s Journey to World Cup Host
2017
The United
2026
Bid Is announced
Philadelphia is among 44 American cities initially selected
2018 Philadelphia Makes The Final 17
Philadelphia makes it to the final 17 American cities included in the bid. The United Bid is selected in June 2018 at the FIFA Congress in Moscow. Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer is one of the founding partners of the bid with the City of Philadelphia, PHL CVB, Philadelphia Eagles and Philadelphia Union.
2019
Philadelphia Launches Host City Campaign
In 2019, Philadelphia officially launched its campaign to become a host city for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, unveiling the city’s “Bring It!” bid initiative and rallying support from local leaders, sports organizations and the region’s soccer community. The announcement marked a major step in Philadelphia’s journey toward hosting the world’s biggest sporting event, highlighting the city’s passion for soccer and its vision to play a key role on the global stage in 2026.
2021
FIFA Visits Philadelphia
In September 2021, FIFA representatives visited Philadelphia as part of the official host city evaluation process for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. During the visit, city leaders and local organizers showcased Philadelphia’s stadium infrastructure, transportation, hospitality and passionate soccer community as the city continued its push to be selected as an official host site. The visit was a major milestone in Philadelphia’s World Cup journey and gave the city an opportunity to demonstrate its readiness to welcome the world in 2026.
2022
Philadelphia Selected as Host City
On June 16, 2022, Philadelphia was officially selected as a host city for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, earning the opportunity to welcome the world’s biggest sporting event to the region. The announcement marked the successful culmination of years of planning, collaboration and community support, with Philadelphia chosen as one of 11 United States host cities. The city was awarded six matches, including a Round of 16 match on July 4, 2026, further cementing Philadelphia’s place on the global soccer stage.
CITY RISING
2025 Eastern Pennsylvania Youth
Soccer
Clinic
with Philadelphia 2026
In the summer of 2025, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer partnered with Philadelphia Soccer 2026 to host a special youth clinic at Penn Park celebrating one year until the FIFA World Cup 2026™. The event brought young players together for an evening of soccer, skill development and community celebration as excitement continued to grow ahead of Philadelphia hosting the world’s biggest sporting event. The clinic highlighted the city’s passion for the game and ongoing efforts to inspire the next generation.
2025
World Cup Draw Watch Party
As anticipation for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ continued to grow, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer joined fans across the region for official World Cup Draw Watch Parties at Stateside Live!, Brauhaus Schmitz and SteelStacks. The events brought together soccer supporters, community partners and local organizations to celebrate the official tournament draw and build excitement for Philadelphia’s role as a host city in 2026. From Philadelphia to the Lehigh Valley, the watch parties showcased the region’s passion for the game and the growing energy surrounding the World Cup’s arrival.
2026
Serving the Community Ahead of 2026
In partnership with Philadelphia Soccer 2026 and Salone FC, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer participated in an MLK Day of Service community cleanup at Suffolk Park. Volunteers came together on Martin Luther King Jr. Day to help beautify the park and give back to the local community, using soccer as a platform to create positive impact beyond the game. The event reflected the shared commitment to service, unity and leaving a lasting legacy ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026™.
2026
Lights, Camera, World Cup
Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer participated in a commercial shoot at Hunter Soccer Club as part of the build-up to the FIFA World Cup 2026™. The shoot featured local players and highlighted the passion, energy and community that make soccer such an important part of the Philadelphia region. The commercial is set to air during the World Cup, giving the region’s youth soccer community a chance to be part of the global spotlight when the tournament arrives in 2026.
THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
United States
This is the moment American soccer has been building toward. The United States co-hosts the 2026 World Cup for the first time since 1994, but this time, it does not arrive as a hopeful outsider. It arrives with a real generation, a top coach, and a real chance to make noise on home soil.
STAR PLAYERS TO WATCH USA
McKennie
A rugged, versatile midfielder who brings energy, edge, and a knack for arriving in big moments.
Pulisic
America’s best player, biggest name, and most dangerous attacking weapon, with the confidence
FOLARIN Balogun
A true No. 9 with speed, power, and finishing ability, giving the U.S. a legitimate scoring threat up front.
How They Play
The U.S. plays with speed, pressure, and athleticism. They want to press, force mistakes, and attack before opponents can settle. At their best, the Americans are direct, aggressive, and difficult to play through, with wide players who can stretch the field and midfielders who cover ground in both directions.
ANTONEE Robinson
One of the Premier League’s most reliable left-backs, Robinson gives the U.S. pace, defensive bite, and dangerous service from wide
One Big Strength
This is the deepest American player pool ever. The U.S. now has starters and regular contributors across top European leagues, plus enough athleticism to make any opponent uncomfortable. They may not have the polish of the tournament favorites, but they have pace, power, and players who are used to big environments.
One Big Question
Can the U.S. handle the pressure of being the host? The opportunity is enormous, but so is the spotlight. Every match will feel like a national event, and this group has to turn energy into results. Talent is no longer the excuse. The question is whether they can deliver when the country is watching.
POPULATION: 340 million
FIFA CONFEDERATION: CONCACAF
WORLD CUP APPEARANCES: 12
BEST HISTORICAL
WORLD CUP FINISH: Third place, 1930
BEST MODERN WORLD CUP FINISH: Quarterfinals, 2002
QUALIFIED AS: Co-host
COUNTRY LEGENDS: Tim Howard, Clint Dempsey, Landon Donovan, Alexi Lalas
THE COACH
Mauricio Pochettino gives the U.S. a true big-stage manager. The former Tottenham, PSG, and Chelsea boss was hired to turn America’s most talented generation into a team ready to deliver on home soil. His challenge is clear: make the talent tougher, sharper, and more consistent when the pressure peaks.
WORLD CUP LEGACY
American soccer has a deeper World Cup history than many fans realize. The U.S. finished third at the first tournament in 1930, returned after a long absence in 1990, and hosted in 1994. The modern high point came in 2002, when the Americans reached the quarterfinals before falling to Germany. 2018 was the low. Hosting 2026 is the chance to change the story.
Brazil
Philadelphia match: vs. Haiti, June 19. Brazil is never just another team at the World Cup. The five-time champions remain soccer royalty, a country that turns every match into an event and every tournament into a referendum on its place in the sport. Philadelphia gets one of the true glamour names in world soccer.
How They Play
Brazil still wants to attack with style, quick combinations, fearless dribbling, and pressure in waves. When the ball moves quickly, and the confidence is flowing, few teams are more fun to watch.
One Big Strength Talent everywhere.
Even in a lessthan-perfect cycle, Brazil’s roster is loaded with players who can change a match in one touch, one run, or one moment of brilliance.
One Big Question
Can Brazil turn expectation into production? Their qualifying campaign raised real questions, but the standard never changes. For Brazil, anything short of a title feels like disappointment.
Ivory Coast
Philadelphia matches: vs. Ecuador, June 14 & vs. Curaçao, June 25. Côte d’Ivoire, better known to many fans as the Ivory Coast, returns to the World Cup with real momentum. The Elephants have long been one of Africa’s great talent factories, and after winning the Africa Cup of Nations in 2023, they arrive with belief, bite, and star power.
How They Play
Côte d’Ivoire plays with power and pace, using athletic midfielders and quick attackers to turn defensive wins into fast chances. When space opens up, they can be ruthless.
One Big Strength
Big-game experience. This squad is filled with players from top European leagues, and they have already shown they can handle the pressure on the continental stage.
One Big Question
Can they bring the same sharpness every match?
At their best, Côte d’Ivoire look dangerous against anyone. The challenge is keeping that level from game to game.
STAR PLAYER TO WATCH
Raphinha
BRA
COUNTRY
SNAPSHOT
Population: 212 million
FIFA
Confederation: CONMEBOL
World Cup
Appearances: 23
Best World Cup
Finish: Champion, 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, 2002
Qualified as: CONMEBOL qualifier
Head Coach: Carlo Ancelotti
Country Legends: Pelé, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Neymar
CIV
COUNTRY
SNAPSHOT
Population: 30 million
FIFA
Confederation: CAF
World Cup
Appearances: 4
Best World Cup
Finish: Group stage, 2006, 2010, 2014
Qualified as: CAF qualifier
Head Coach: Emerse Faé
Country Legends: Didier Drogba, Yaya Touré, Kolo Touré, Gervinho
STAR PLAYER TO WATCH
SIMON Adingra
Adingra is the explosive winger whose pace and direct running can stretch a defense in a hurry.
The Barcelona winger gives Brazil speed, creativity, and a dangerous left-footed threat
We
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Croatia
Philadelphia match: vs. Ghana, June 27. Croatia keeps proving that size means very little in world soccer. The 2018 finalists and 2022 third-place finishers remain one of the smartest tournament teams on the planet, built on composure, patience, and midfield control.
How They Play
Croatia wants to control the game through midfield. They are patient, polished, and rarely rushed, waiting for the right moment instead of forcing the game open too early.
One Big Strength
Tournament know-how. Croatia’s best players have lived through deep World Cup runs and understand how to manage tense, tight matches.
One Big Question
Can the older core still carry the load? Experience is a major strength, but a long World Cup demands legs, energy, and fresh ideas.
CRO
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population: 3.9 million
FIFA Confederation: UEFA
World Cup
Appearances: 7
Best World Cup
Finish: Runner-up, 2018
Qualified as: UEFA qualifier
Head Coach: Zlatko Dalić
Country Legends: Luka DavorModrić, Šuker, Zvonimir Boban, Ivan Perišić
STAR PLAYER TO WATCH
Curaçao
Philadelphia match: vs. Côte d’Ivoire, June 25. Curaçao is one of the great stories of this World Cup. The Caribbean island, part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, has become one of the smallest nations ever to qualify, building a historic team with Dutch-born talent and deep island pride.
How They Play
Curaçao is organized first. They stay compact, protect space, and try to frustrate opponents before looking for quick chances the other way.
One Big Strength
Belief. Curaçao knows this is bigger than one tournament, and that shared purpose gives them a real edge.
One Big Question
Can they close the talent gap? They will compete hard. The challenge is finding the one or two moments that can turn a brave performance into a famous result.
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population: 150,000
FIFA Confederation: CONCACAF
World Cup
Appearances: 1
Best World Cup
Finish: World Cup debut, 2026
Qualified as: CONCACAF qualifier
Head Coach: Dick Advocaat
Country Legends: Juninho Bacuna, Leandro Bacuna, Cuco Martina, Rangelo Janga
STAR PLAYER TO WATCH
JUNINHO Bacuna Bacuna is the versatile midfielder whose experience, toughness, and energy make him central to Curaçao’s hopes.
MATEO Kovačić
The Manchester City midfielder’s technical quality, movement, and calm decisionmaking help set Croatia’s rhythm.
Ecuador
Philadelphia match: vs. Côte d’Ivoire, June 14. Ecuador has become one of South America’s most reliable and difficult teams. They are young, athletic, organized, and no longer just happy to be part of the field. This is a dangerous team with enough quality to make life miserable for bigger names.
How
They Play
Ecuador is compact, physical, and direct. They defend as a group, win the ball aggressively, and look to attack with purpose before opponents can reset.
One Big Strength
Toughness.
Ecuador does not give away easy games. They run, tackle, press, and force opponents to earn everything.
One Big Question
Can they score enough? The defensive structure is real, but their tournament ceiling may depend on whether they can turn pressure into goals.
MOISÉS Caicedo The Chelsea midfielder’s engine, ballwinning ability, and composure make him one of the tournament’s most important
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population: 18 million
FIFA
Confederation: CONMEBOL
World Cup
Appearances: 5
Best World Cup
Finish: Round of 16, 2006
Qualified as: CONMEBOL qualifier
Head Coach: Sebastián Beccacece
Country Legends: Antonio Valencia, Agustín Delgado, Enner Valencia, Álex Aguinaga
France
Philadelphia match: vs. Iraq, June 22. France may be the most complete team in the tournament. The 2018 champions and 2022 runners-up arrive with superstar talent, depth across the board, and the kind of confidence that comes from living at the very top of world soccer.
How They Play
France can beat teams in different ways. They can control the ball, sit deeper and counter, or simply let their best players create something out of nothing.
One Big Strength
Elite depth. France has world-class options all over the field, which gives them answers for almost every kind of opponent.
One Big Question
Can they stay healthy and focused? France has the talent to win it all, but keeping the right players fit and the group locked in is always the test.
FRA
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population: 68 million
FIFA
Confederation: UEFA
World Cup
Appearances: 17
Best World Cup
Finish: Champion, 1998, 2018
Qualified as: UEFA qualifier
Head Coach: Didier Deschamps
Country Legends: Zinedine Zidane, Michel Platini, Thierry Henry, Kylian Mbappé
OUSMANE Dembélé The Paris Saint-Germain winger gives France elite pace, one-on-one skill and the ability to change a match in a flash.
Ghana
Philadelphia match: vs. Croatia, June 27. Ghana’s Black Stars bring speed, flair, and a long history of World Cup drama. From the heartbreak of 2010 to a new generation of attackers, Ghana remains one of Africa’s most compelling teams when the lights are brightest.
How They Play
Ghana is at its best when they play fast. They look to break quickly, attack space, and put defenders under pressure before the game settles.
One
Big
Strength
Explosive athleticism. Ghana has the pace and power to make any opponent uncomfortable, especially in transition.
One Big Question
Can they find consistency?
Ghana can look brilliant in one match and uneven in the next. A deep run requires the good version to show up every time.
GHA
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population: 34 million
FIFA
Confederation: CAF World Cup
Appearances: 5
Best World Cup
Finish: Quarterfinals, 2010
Qualified as: CAF qualifier
Head Coach: Carlos Queiroz
Country Legends: Abedi Pele, Michael Essien, Asamoah Gyan, Sulley Muntari
Haiti
Philadelphia match: vs. Brazil, June 19. Haiti’s return to the World Cup is one of the tournament’s best stories. Back for the first time since 1974, Haiti arrives with pride, energy, and a chance to create an unforgettable moment against Brazil in Philadelphia.
How They Play
Haiti relies on organization, energy, and quick transitions. They will work to stay compact defensively, then attack fast when space appears.
One Big Strength
Togetherness. Haiti’s players understand what this moment means, and that emotion can be a real force.
One Big Question
Can they survive the pressure long enough to strike? The talent gap is real, especially against Brazil, but World Cups are built for moments, and Haiti will be chasing one.
The
COUNTRY
SNAPSHOT
Population: 11.7 million
FIFA
Confederation: CONCACAF World Cup
Appearances: 2
Best World Cup
Finish: Group stage, 1974
Qualified as: CONCACAF qualifier
Head Coach: Sébastien Migné
Country Legends: Emmanuel Sanon, Philippe Vorbe, Joe Gaetjens, Frantzdy Pierrot
FRANTZDY Pierrot
The powerful forward’s scoring record and physical presence give Haiti a true attacking focal point.
MOHAMMED Kudus
Tottenham attacker has the strength, skill, and confidence to flip a match in one run.
The Keystone of American Soccer
Pennsylvania is known as the keystone state due to its location in the middle of the original thirteen colonies. The state, and specifically Philadelphia has been a keystone for American soccer for over 150 years.
Soccer in America traces its roots to immigrants from around the world, many who settled first on the east coast. Philadelphia was one of the first hotbeds for soccer in the1800’s along with our neighbors in New York and New Jersey. Soccer as an organized sport owes a lot to Philadelphia as many of soccer’s founding fathers are from here and developed the sport here.
Soccer was played by clubs informally in the late 1800’s. The first organized league in the Philadelphia region was formed in 1889, The Pennsylvania Association Football Union. At the collegiate level, the University of Pennsylvania and Haverford College were among the earliest to play the sport intramurally at first and then at a varsity level by 1876. The first professional soccer league in the United States was founded in Philadelphia in 1894; The American League of Professional Football began here with the Philadelphia Phillies, the baseball team, leading the way both in management of the league and on the field. Baseball legend Connie Mack also owned a pro soccer team in Philadelphia starting in 1901.
Philadelphia was key to the creation of what is now US Soccer, as the Allied Association of Philadelphia, one of the country’s premier leagues, was integral in creating The United States Football Association in 1913. The Football Association of Eastern Pennsylvania and District, precursor to EPYSA, was admitted as a charter member. Philadelphian Elmer Schroeder was the first American born president of the US Soccer in 1933-34. Later, another Philadelphia, Werner Fricker would become president in 1986 and is responsible for bringing the FIFA World Cup to the United States in 1994.
Amateur and professional soccer flourished in Philadelphia and the surrounding area in the early
and mid-20th century. Bethlehem Steel FC was the premier team of its day winning what’s now the US Open Cup five teams from 1915- 1926. Philadelphia teams dominated professional soccer through the 1940’s and 50’s with star players and US National Team legends, Walter Bahr, Benny McLaughlin and Len Oliver. Bahr played a key role in defeating England 1-0 in the 1950 FIFA World Cup. Lighthouse Boys Club won McGuire Cups as the US youth U19 champions between 1938 -1967. Multiple teams have claimed US Youth titles over the past 50 years.
Through the 1960’s The Philadelphia Ukrainian Nationals ruled professional soccer. The Ukrainian’s won six ASL titles and four US Open cups from 1960-1970. They played in front of sell-out crowds and were the first team in the country to have home games televised. The star player was Walter Chyzowych who went on to become the US National team coach and the father of coaching education as the US Soccer Director of Coaching throughout the 70’s and 80’s. Along came the NASL’s Philadelphia Atoms, coached by hall of famer Al Miller from Lebanon, PA. The Atoms won the 1973 championship led by several local players like Bobby Smith, Barry Barto and Bob Rigby.
Youth soccer grew extensively though the 80’s while professional soccer and our national team faced tougher times. The boom in youth soccer fueled by the NASL and the arrival of Pele in 1975 yielded a new crop of players. The United States would be back in the World Cup for the first time in since we beat England in 1950 as we headed to Italy in 1990. Prior to that in 1989, game was played in Philadelphia’s Franklin Field between the US and Dnepr of the Soviet Union. The game was promoted by former Eastern Pennsylvania President, and then US Soccer Treasurer Richard Groff proved that our national team could play big teams and draw large crowds. Philadelphia did it again in 1993 when the US played Sheffield Wednesday at Veterans Stadium. Prior to the 1994 World Cup those two matches were the largest USMNT crowds in history. Pennsylvania was also host to the Chiquita Cup in 1994; the first international women’s tournament played in the US. Philadelphia also hosted the 2003 FIFA Women’s World Cup after the event was moved away from China. Philadelphia later set the USWNT team record with nearly 55,000 in 2019.
Many players, coaches and administrators from Pennsylvania have had prominent roles in the development of our federation, our national teams, our world cup bids and the general growth of the sport. Philadelphia as a city has had a clear role in the growth of the game and is deserving of being known as the keystone of American soccer.
Algeria Argentina
One Big Strength
Algeria has technically gifted players throughout the squad and can play stylish, possessionbased soccer capable of breaking down organized defenses.
One Big Question
Can Algeria turn its talent into consistent World Cup results and deliver the tournament performance their supporters expect?
RIYAD Mahrez is the experienced winger whose creativity and individual quality still make him one of Africa’s most dangerous attackers.
Australia
One Big Strength
Australia is physical, organized, and mentally tough. The Socceroos always compete hard, regardless of the opponent.
One Big Question
Australia reached the Round of 16 in 2022 before falling to Argentina. Can they recreate that momentum and push even further?
Belgium
One Big Strength
Even as their golden generation continues to age, Belgium still has quality across the field and years of experience competing near the top of international soccer.
One Big Question
Can a transitional squad mixing veterans and emerging players find the right chemistry to make a serious run?
ALG
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population: 46 million
FIFA Confederation: CAF
World Cup Appearances: 5
Best World Cup Finish: Round of 16, 2014
Qualified As: CAF qualifier
Head Coach: Vladimir Petković
MATHEW Leckie the veteran winger, whose pace and directness have made him one of Australia’s key attacking players for years.
AUS
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population:
27 million
FIFA Confederation: AFC
World Cup Appearances: 7
Best World Cup Finish: Round of 16, 2006, 2022
Qualified As: AFC Qualifier
Head Coach: Tony Popovic
ROMELU Lukaku the Napoli striker, whose size, finishing, and experience still make him one of Belgium’s most important attacking options when healthy.
One Big Strength
Argentina is the reigning World Cup champion, playing with confidence, belief, and the leadership of Lionel Messi.
One Big Question
Can Argentina defend its title? Every opponent will be highly motivated to knock off the reigning champions.
Austria
One Big Strength
Austria plays an energetic, high-pressing style built on collective effort. They are organized, intense, and difficult to play against for a full 90 minutes.
One Big Question
Austria is back on the World Cup stage for the first time since 1998. Can they handle the step up in quality and pressure?
LIONEL Messi one of the greatest players in soccer history, is competing in what may be his final World Cup.
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population:
46 million
FIFA Confederation: CONMEBOL
World Cup Appearances: 19
Best World Cup
Finish: Champion, 1978, 1986, 2022
Qualified As: CONMEBOL qualifier
Head Coach: Lionel Scaloni
MARCEL Sabitzer is the experienced midfielder whose intensity and goals from midfield make him one of Austria’s most important players.
BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA
One Big Strength
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population: 11.8 million
FIFA Confederation: UEFA
World Cup Appearances: 15
Best World Cup Finish: Third place, 2018
Qualified As: UEFA qualifier Head Coach: Rudi Garcia
Bosnia and Herzegovina have a physically strong squad with real attacking quality. When organized and motivated, they are an uncomfortable matchup.
One Big Question
Can Bosnia turn individual talent into consistent collective performance on the World Cup stage?
EDIN Džeko the veteran striker and nationalteam icon, whose leadership and finishing remain vital.
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population:
9.2 million
FIFA Confederation: UEFA
World Cup Appearances: 8
Best World Cup
Finish: Third place, 1954
Qualified As:
UEFA qualifier
Head Coach: Ralf Rangnick
Qualified As:
qualifier
Coach: Sergej Barbarez
Cabo Verde Canada
One Big Strength
Cabo Verde is compact, energetic, and wellorganized. They win through collective effort and are capable of surprising higher-ranked opponents.
One Big Question
As World Cup debutants, can Cabo Verde adapt quickly enough to compete against the world’s best?
CPV
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population: 600,000
FIFA Confederation: CAF
World Cup Appearances: 1
Best World Cup Finish: World Cup debut, 2026
Qualified As: CAF qualifier
Verde’s rise.
Colombia
One Big Strength
Colombia is one of South America’s most exciting teams, creative, attackminded, and packed with players who can beat opponents individually.
One Big Question
Colombia has the talent to go far. Can they finally put together the complete tournament run their quality suggests is possible?
LUIS Diaz the explosive winger, whose pace and creativity make him one of the most dangerous attackers in world soccer.
DR Congo
One Big Strength
DR Congo have exceptional athletic talent and an attack-minded style that can overwhelm opponents when everything clicks.
One Big Question
DR Congo reached the tournament through the playoff route. Can they find the defensive organization needed to compete consistently at this level?
CEDRIC Bakambu the experienced striker who has long been one of DR Congo’s most reliable attacking threats.
One Big Strength
Canada has emerged as a real CONCACAF power, with talented players at major clubs and a national team built on speed, confidence, and belief.
One Big Question
After returning to the World Cup in 2022, Canada now enters as a co-host. Can they handle the pressure of playing in front of a home crowd?
Head Coach: Bubista
Czechia
One Big Strength
COL
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population:
52 million
FIFA Confederation: CONMEBOL
World Cup Appearances: 7
Best World Cup Finish: Quarterfinals, 2014
Qualified As: CONMEBOL qualifier
Head Coach: Néstor Lorenzo
DRC
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population: 105 million
FIFA
Confederation: CAF
World Cup Appearances: 2
Best World Cup
Finish: Group stage, 1974 as Zaire
Qualified As: CAF qualifier
Head Coach: Sébastien Desabre
ALPHONSO Davies the Bayern Munich star, is one of the most exciting players in the tournament.
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population:
41 million
FIFA Confederation: CONCACAF
Czechia is organized, experienced, and difficult to break down. They compete hard and rarely give anything away cheaply.
One Big Question
Can Czechia make a true impact as an independent nation at the World Cup and push beyond the group stage?
Egypt
One Big Strength
Egypt has one of Africa’s most historic soccer programs and a global star in Mohamed Salah, whose quality gives them a chance in any match.
One Big Question
Can Egypt finally advance past the group stage? Their World Cup history has included big moments, but not the breakthrough run their fans crave.
PATRIK Schick the striker whose finishing and ability to score from distance make him dangerous in any situation.
MOHAMED Salah the Liverpool legend, whose goals and leadership make him one of the best players in the world.
World Cup Appearances: 3
Best World Cup
Finish: Group stage, 1986, 2022
Qualified As: Co-host
Head Coach: Jesse Marsch
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population:
10.9 million
FIFA Confederation: UEFA
World Cup Appearances: 2 as Czechia
Best World Cup
Finish: Group stage, 2006 as Czechia
Qualified As: UEFA qualifier
Head Coach: Miroslav
EGY CZE CAN
CAF World Cup Appearances: 4 Best World Cup
Finish: Group stage, 1934, 1990, 2018
Qualified As: CAF qualifier
Head Coach: Hossam Hassan
Koubek
GARRY Rodrigues the experienced winger, whose goals have been important to Cabo
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England Germany
One Big Strength
England has worldclass attacking talent throughout their squad and a battle-tested Premier League core that knows how to handle pressure in major matches.
One Big Question
Can England finally deliver when it truly matters? They have reached finals and semifinals in recent years, but still seem to fall just short.
Iran
One Big Strength
Iran are experienced, disciplined, and comfortable playing in tight, tactical matches. They know how to stay compact and frustrate opponents.
One Big Question
Can Iran find enough attacking quality to win matches, rather than simply stay competitive?
Japan
One Big Strength
Japan is organized, technical, and disciplined. Their 2022 wins over Germany and Spain proved they can beat elite opponents.
One Big Question
Can Japan turn impressive group-stage performances into a deeper knockout run?
JUDE Bellingham the Real Madrid midfielder, thrives when tournament pressure is at its highest.
ENG
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population:
57 million
FIFA Confederation:
UEFA
World Cup Appearances: 17
Best World Cup Finish: Champion, 1966
Qualified As:
UEFA qualifier
Head Coach: Thomas Tuchel
MEHDI Taremi the experienced striker, whose movement and technical quality make him Iran’s
IRN
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population:
89 million
FIFA Confederation: AFC
World Cup Appearances: 7
Best World Cup Finish: Group stage
Qualified As:
AFC qualifier
Head Coach: Amir Ghalenoei
TAKEFUSA Kubo the Real Sociedad winger whose skill and creativity make him one of Japan’s
One Big Strength Germany is tactically disciplined, physically strong, and loaded with tournament experience. Even when they are not at their best, they remain difficult to play against.
One Big Question
Can they recapture the dominance that made them 2014 champions? Germany has underperformed recently and arrives hungry to prove itself again.
Iraq
One Big Strength
Iraq reached the World Cup through a difficult playoff path, showing resilience, belief, and the ability to handle pressure.
One Big Question
Iraq is making its first World Cup appearance since 1986. How quickly can they adjust to the tournament’s pace and quality?
Jordan
One Big Strength
FLORIAN Wirtz the Liverpool midfielder, whose creativity gives Germany a different level of attacking danger.
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population:
84 million
FIFA
Confederation:
UEFA
World Cup Appearances: 21
Best World Cup
Finish: Champion, 1954, 1974, 1990, 2014
Qualified As:
UEFA qualifier
Head Coach: Julian Nagelsmann
AYMEN Hussein the prolific striker who gives Iraq a clear focal point in attack.
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population:
46 million
FIFA
Confederation: AFC
World Cup Appearances: 2
Best World Cup
Finish: Group stage, 1986
Qualified As: AFC /
playoff qualifier
Head Coach: Graham Arnold
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
million
FIFA
Confederation: AFC
World Cup Appearances: 8
Best World Cup
Finish: Round of 16, 2002, 2010, 2018, 2022
Qualified As:
AFC qualifier
Head Coach: Hajime Moriyasu
Jordan is making their World Cup debut with discipline, organization, and a belief built through qualification.
One Big Question
Jordan has never competed at this level. How quickly can they adjust to the speed, pressure, and quality of the World Cup?
million
FIFA
Confederation: AFC
World Cup Appearances: 1
Best World Cup
Finish: World Cup debut, 2026
Qualified As:
AFC qualifier
Head Coach: Jamal Sellami MUSA AL-TAAMARI the attacker, whose European experience gives Jordan a dangerous outlet.
Mexico Morocco
One Big Strength
Mexico is CONCACAF’s most established program, with experience, passionate support, and a long history of competing on the World Cup stage.
One Big Question
Mexico reached the Round of 16 at seven straight World Cups from 1994 through 2018, but that streak ended in 2022. Can they recover and finally make a deeper run?
a true scoring threat at the top of the attack.
Netherlands
One Big Strength
The Dutch have a deep pool of technically gifted players and a proud tradition of producing attackers who can create scoring chances from anywhere on the field.
One Big Question
The Netherlands can be brilliant one match and puzzling the next. Can they find the consistency needed to survive a full tournament run?
Norway
One Big Strength
Norway has a genuine world-class striker in Erling Haaland, who is capable of deciding matches against any team in the world.
One Big Question
Can Norway give Haaland enough support to make a real run? Opponents will build their entire game plan around stopping him, which means others have to step up.
MEX
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population:
129 million
FIFA Confederation: CONCACAF
World Cup Appearances: 18
Best World Cup Finish: Quarterfinals, 1970, 1986
Qualified As: Co-host
Head Coach: Javier Aguirre
VIRGIL van Dijk the Liverpool captain, anchors one of the tournament’s most formidable defensive units.
NED
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population:
18 million
FIFA Confederation: UEFA
World Cup Appearances: 12
Best World Cup Finish: Runner-up, 1974, 1978, 2010
Qualified As: UEFA qualifier
Head Coach: Ronald Koeman
Haaland the Manchester City goal machine and one of the most feared strikers in world soccer.
One Big Strength
Morocco is the standardbearer for African soccer after their stunning 2022 semifinal run, the best finish ever by an African nation.
One Big Question
Can Morocco reproduce their 2022 magic, or will opponents be better prepared for them this time?
ACHRAF Hakimi the PSG right-back, whose attacking quality from deep makes him one of Morocco’s most important weapons.
New Zealand
One Big Strength
New Zealand is organized, physical, and plays with genuine team spirit. The All Whites compete with pride and can be stubborn opponents.
One Big Question
New Zealand qualified through Oceania, and the jump to World Cup competition is enormous. Can they hold their own against elite opposition?
Panama
One Big Strength
CHRIS Wood the experienced Premier League striker and New Zealand’s most reliable international goal scorer.
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population:
38 million
FIFA Confederation: CAF
World Cup Appearances: 7
Best World Cup
Finish: Fourth place, 2022
Qualified As: CAF qualifier
Head Coach: Walid Regragui
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population:
5.6 million
FIFA Confederation: UEFA World Cup Appearances: 4
Best World Cup
Finish: Round of 16, 1938, 1998
Qualified As: UEFA qualifier
Head Coach: Ståle Solbakken
Panama is competitive, physical, and disciplined. They consistently punch above their weight in CONCACAF.
One Big Question
Panama’s only previous World Cup appearance came in 2018 and ended in the group stage. Can they show how much they have grown since then?
ADALBERTO Carrasquilla is the midfielder who drives Panama forward and is one of CONCACAF’s most underrated players.
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population:
5.3 million
FIFA Confederation: OFC
World Cup Appearances: 3
Best World Cup
Finish: Group stage, 1982, 2010
Qualified As: OFC qualifier
Head Coach: Darren Bazeley
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population:
4.5 million
FIFA
World Cup Appearances: 2
Best World Cup
Finish: Group stage, 2018
Qualified As: CONCACAF qualifier
Head Coach: Thomas Christiansen
SANTIAGO Giménez the AC Milan striker who gives Mexico
Paraguay Portugal
One Big Strength
Paraguay is defensively disciplined, physically tough, and hard to break down. They make life uncomfortable for bigger teams.
One Big Question
Paraguay is not expected to go deep, but they have surprised before. Can they stay organized and steal enough results to become more than just a difficult early opponent?
Qatar
One Big Strength
Qatar has invested heavily in soccer development and built a technically capable, well-coached national team.
One Big Question
Qatar debuted as host in 2022 and now arrives after qualifying through the normal process. Can they show real progress without the weight of hosting pressure?
PAR
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population: 6.9 million
FIFA Confederation: CONMEBOL World Cup Appearances: 9
One Big Strength Portugal has remarkable attacking depth, with elite forwards and a creative midfield capable of controlling games against almost anyone.
One Big Question
Best World Cup Finish: Quarterfinals, 2010
Qualified As: CONMEBOL qualifier
Head Coach: Gustavo Alfaro
Almirón the Atlanta United attacker, whose energy and directness remain central to Paraguay’s attack. AKRAM Afif the creative winger who remains Qatar’s most dangerous attacking player.
QAT
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population: 3 million
FIFA Confederation: AFC World Cup Appearances: 2
Best World Cup Finish: Group stage, 2022
Qualified As: AFC qualifier
Head Coach: Julen Lopetegui
Can Portugal manage the late-Ronaldo era and turn all of that talent into a complete tournament run? The new generation is strong, but the pressure to deliver remains enormous.
CRISTIANO Ronaldo the Al-Nassr forward, remains Portugal’s most iconic finisher and one of the biggest names in World Cup history.
Saudi Arabia
One Big Strength
Saudi Arabia produced one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history by beating Argentina in 2022, proof that they can deliver on the biggest stage.
One Big Question
Can Saudi Arabia become more consistent and turn exciting moments into actual tournament advancement?
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population:
10.5 million
FIFA Confederation: UEFA World Cup Appearances: 9
Best World Cup Finish: Third place, 1966
Qualified As:
UEFA qualifier
Head Coach: Roberto Martínez
SALEM Al-Dawsari the experienced winger who scored the iconic winner against Argentina in 2022.
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population:
37 million
FIFA Confederation: AFC World Cup Appearances: 7
Best World Cup Finish: Round of 16, 1994
Qualified As: AFC qualifier
Head Coach: Georgios Donis
Scotland Senegal
One Big Strength
Scotland is organized, disciplined, and plays with a hunger that allows them to punch above their individual talent level.
One Big Question
Scotland has historically struggled to advance at major tournaments. Can this group finally collect the results needed to escape the group stage?
gives Scotland power, goals and big-game edge in the middle of the field.
SCO
Qualified As:
9
One Big Strength
Senegal is physical, experienced, and talented at every level of the field. They have players who understand major European and international competition.
One Big Question
Can Senegal build on recent tournament success and make a deeper run at the World Cup?
SADIO Mané the Al-Nassr forward, whose goals and leadership continue to define Senegal.
Qualified As:
South Africa South Korea
One Big Strength
South Africa brings energy, pride, and the motivation of a team trying to reestablish itself on the World Cup stage.
One Big Question
South Africa is back in the main competition for the first time since hosting in 2010. Can they deliver results that match the passion of their support?
LYLE Foster is the powerful striker whose European club experience makes him one of South Africa’s most dangerous attacking options.
RSA
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population:
63 million
FIFA Confederation: CAF
World Cup Appearances: 4
Best World Cup
Finish: Group stage, 1998, 2002, 2010
Qualified As: CAF qualifier
Head Coach: Hugo Broos
One Big Strength
South Korea consistently produces hard-working, technically gifted players who compete at high levels and bring that experience back to the national team.
One Big Question
South Korea has a proud World Cup history, including a semifinal run in 2002. Can this generation deliver again?
Spain Sweden
One Big Strength
Spain plays some of the most fluid, technical soccer in the world, built around short passing, intelligent movement, and relentless pressing that can suffocate opponents.
One Big Question
Can they turn control into a championship? Spain can dominate possession against anyone, but finishing chances remains the real challenge.
Pedri the Barcelona midfielder, is one of the most important players in Spain’s system.
Switzerland
One Big Strength
Switzerland is one of the world’s most consistent tournament teams, organized, difficult to beat, and capable of frustrating more talented opponents.
One Big Question
Can Switzerland move beyond its modern World Cup ceiling and make a deeper knockout-stage run?
ESP
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population:
48 million
FIFA Confederation: UEFA
World Cup Appearances: 17
Best World Cup Finish: Champion, 2010
Qualified As: UEFA qualifier
Head Coach: Luis de la Fuente
SUI
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population: 8.9 million
FIFA Confederation: UEFA World Cup Appearances: 13
Best World Cup
Finish: Quarterfinals, 1934, 1938, 1954
Qualified As: UEFA qualifier
Head Coach: Murat Yakin
One Big Strength
Sweden plays a direct, physical, organized style that can make any match uncomfortable. They grind teams down and rarely give opponents easy chances.
One Big Question
Sweden is trying to build a new tournament identity. Can their next wave of players deliver the type of World Cup performance their country expects?
Tunisia
One Big Strength
Tunisia is experienced, disciplined, and difficult to break down. They have a long history of competing hard against bigger opponents.
One Big Question
Tunisia has never advanced past the group stage. Can they finally find the attacking quality needed to reach the knockout rounds?
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population:
52 million
FIFA Confederation: AFC
World Cup Appearances: 12
Best World Cup
Finish: Fourth place, 2002
Qualified As: AFC qualifier
Head Coach: Hong Myung-bo
Isak the Liverpool striker, gives Sweden a legitimate worldclass threat in front of goal.
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population:
10.6 million
FIFA Confederation: UEFA
World Cup Appearances: 13
Best World Cup Finish: Runner-up, 1958
Qualified As:
UEFA qualifier
Head Coach: Graham Potter
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population:
12.5 million
FIFA Confederation: CAF
World Cup Appearances: 7
Best World Cup
Finish: Group stage
Qualified As:
CAF qualifier
Head Coach: Sabri Lamouchi
Turkey Uruguay
One Big Strength Turkey has excellent technical players in midfield and attack, along with a passion and intensity that can elevate them on big stages.
One Big Question
Turkey can be brilliant, but it can also be unpredictable. Can they find the consistency needed to string together results?
HAKAN Çalhanoğlu the Inter Milan midfielder who controls tempo and drives much of what Turkey does.
Uzbekistan
One Big Strength Uzbekistan is making its World Cup debut with energy, technical growth, and proof that Central Asian soccer is rising.
One Big Question
As first-time participants, can Uzbekistan handle the massive jump from regional competition to the World Cup stage?
ELDOR Shomurodov the experienced striker and one of Uzbekistan’s most recognizable international players.
TUR
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population: 85 million
FIFA Confederation: UEFA World Cup Appearances: 3
Best World Cup Finish: Third place, 2002
Qualified As:
UEFA qualifier
Head Coach: Vincenzo Montella
UZB
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population: 36 million
FIFA Confederation: AFC
World Cup Appearances: 1
Best World Cup Finish: World Cup debut, 2026
Qualified As: AFC qualifier
Head Coach: Fabio Cannavaro
One Big Strength Uruguay punches well above its weight, combining toughness, technical quality, and the competitive edge that has always defined its soccer identity.
One Big Question
Can the younger generation carry Uruguay beyond the previous golden era and deliver another gritty, successful World Cup run?
FEDERICO Valverde the Real Madrid midfielder, who may be the most complete player Uruguay has produced in a generation.
COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Population: 3.4 million
FIFA Confederation: CONMEBOL
World Cup Appearances: 15
Best World Cup
Finish: Champion, 1930, 1950
Qualified As: CONMEBOL qualifier
Head Coach: Marcelo Bielsa
