Ranking the World Cup 2026 groups: Which teams are favourites to progress?
The first stage of the 2026 World Cup 2026 features 12 groups. We’ve ranked them and picked the favourites to advance.

The first stage of the 2026 World Cup 2026 features 12 groups. We’ve ranked them and picked the favourites to advance.









Elsewhere in the Africa Cup of Nations 2025, Cameroon and Ivory coast draw 1-1, while Sudan see off Equatorial Guinea.
Nigeria’s president says he sent fighter jets, troops to Benin to help quell a coup attempt by mutinous soldiers.
Ivorian authorities said the influx of Malian refugees was caused by ‘attacks against civilians’ from armed groups.

Supporters of Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara celebrated after officials announced his secured fourth term.
In power since 2011, 83-year-old Alassane Ouattara secures fourth term in vote that excluded two main rivals.
Country awaits final presidential election result that could see 83-year-old Alassane Ouattara sworn in for fourth term.










Contentious election in West African nation is set to deliver fourth term to 83-year-old President Alassane Ouattara.
Tensions are mounting over President Ouattara’s decision to run for a fourth term and a ban on opposition candidates.
Civil society and opposition urge shutdowns and boycotts as Alassane Ouattara seeks fourth term in presidential polls.