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The countdown is nearly over, and excitement is at fever pitch. The 2026 World Cup is just two days away, with the finest footballers from all corners of the world heading to the United States, Mexico, and Canada for what promises to be an unforgettable summer of football. While some nations will be content with simply advancing from the group stage, others know that anything short of lifting the trophy in late July will be viewed as failure. Over the next five and a half weeks, fans can expect a rollercoaster of emotions — jubilation and heartbreak in equal measure.

At GOAL, we pride ourselves on our deep understanding of the beautiful game. With that in mind, we asked our team of writers and editors from both the UK and the United States to share their predictions for the upcoming tournament. From who will win the Golden Boot and Golden Ball to the potential dark horses, our experts have analysed every angle of what will be FIFA’s biggest-ever World Cup.

Today, we asked our journalists to predict which nation might end up being the biggest disappointment of the competition — here’s what they had to say...

‘Brazil still haven’t found their rhythm’

Mark Doyle: Brazil could hardly ask for a better manager than Carlo Ancelotti, a coach celebrated for moulding cohesive teams from squads full of superstar egos. His prior success with several key members of the Selecao is another bonus. However, despite his pedigree, the team has yet to fully click under Ancelotti, who only took charge a year ago. Even he admits that the squad lacks depth in several key areas. Considering Brazil’s tricky group, where topping the table is no guarantee, an early exit — perhaps even in the round of 32 — cannot be ruled out.

‘Germany’s weaknesses are everywhere’

Krishan Davis: Since reaching the semi-finals of Euro 2016, Germany haven’t impressed at major tournaments. The current squad doesn’t inspire confidence that this time will be any different. While they have a number of solid players, there are glaring weaknesses across the pitch that stronger opponents can exploit. They should progress past the group stage, but I don’t see them advancing much further than that.

‘Spain depend too much on Yamal’

Stephen Darwin: Spain are among the favourites to win it all this year — and understandably so after their sparkling Euro 2024 campaign. The core of that squad remains intact, though they’ve lost one or two experienced names. Yet, there seems to be a heavy dependence on Lamine Yamal. The world’s best young talent enters the tournament carrying both fatigue and a minor injury after a demanding season with Barcelona. If an opponent figures out how to neutralise him, Spain could be in serious trouble when it matters most.

‘A tough draw could end the Dutch dream early’

Amee Ruszkai: There’s a strong chance the Netherlands, if they win Group F, could face Morocco — likely second in Group C behind Brazil — in a mouth-watering round-of-32 clash. That could spell an early exit for one of the tournament’s star-studded teams, possibly the Oranje. Questions persist about the form of several key players, the left-back position remains a concern, and recent performances have been inconsistent. The Dutch certainly possess talent, but a difficult knockout draw could cut their campaign short.

‘Brazil’s sixth crown may be out of reach’

Chris Burton: Of Brazil’s 26-man squad, 16 players are aged 28 or older. Experience can be valuable, but there’s a risk that the Selecao may be past their peak. Their defence could struggle against pace, and with Neymar dealing with injuries, someone else will need to step up in attack. Can Vinicius Jr fill that role? While Ancelotti’s side should comfortably top their group, a record-extending sixth World Cup title might be beyond them this time.

‘Germany could be stunned by Curacao’

Alex Labidou: Germany lack the intimidation factor that once defined them. Coach Julian Nagelsmann has been under fire in the local press due to his tactical choices. Although their attack can be exciting, it’s also erratic. This could be a team vulnerable to a surprise defeat — perhaps even against Curacao or Ecuador in the group stage.

‘Koeman can’t unlock the Netherlands’ potential’

Peter McVitie: Ronald Koeman boasts a talented Netherlands squad, with stars scattered across Europe’s top leagues. Fifteen of those players ply their trade in the Premier League, suggesting the team is well-prepared for a demanding tournament in North America. Yet Koeman has struggled to get the best out of them. A 1-0 defeat to Algeria in a pre-tournament friendly exposed deep-rooted issues, especially their inability to convert chances — a concern that could haunt them once the competition begins.

‘Croatia are showing their age’

Ryan Tolmich: With the expanded tournament format, surprise group-stage exits may be less frequent, as most third-placed teams still advance. However, a few traditional powers might still disappoint. Croatia, for one, are an ageing side. Uruguay have been inconsistent, and Senegal are dealing with internal federation issues. Each of these teams has the potential to trouble opponents — but they could just as easily implode themselves.

‘Argentina have failed to evolve’

Tom Hindle: It pains me to say it, but Argentina could fall short. It’s almost sacrilegious to doubt Lionel Messi and this spirited Albiceleste side, but the squad hasn’t been refreshed since their 2022 triumph. Some key veterans are gone, and those remaining are four years older. If crucial players like Alexis Mac Allister or Rodrigo De Paul underperform, Argentina could struggle. Their recent form hasn’t been convincing either, so a quarter-final exit seems possible.

‘England are one Kane injury away from disaster’

Tom Maston: I’d love to be proven wrong, but I’m not fully sold on England. Their qualifying campaign was stellar, but friendly results against fellow World Cup participants were worrying. Manager Thomas Tuchel has rarely been able to field his ideal eleven. The Three Lions are heavily reliant on Harry Kane staying fit, and their defence hinges on John Stones avoiding injury. Add the challenges of adapting to a new climate and a tough potential knockout path, and England could easily fall short of the quarter-finals.