World Cup 2026 Power Rankings: France Lead the Pack as England Sweat on Mexico Clash
France have emerged as the clear favourite to lift the World Cup trophy after the last-32 stage, with The Guardian’s panel of six judges unanimously placing them at the top of their power rankings. The French impressed in dismantling Sweden, with Kylian Mbappé and Michael Olise capable of producing moments of match-winning quality at any point. Mbappé himself said after the game that he wanted to “enjoy this World Cup to the fullest” — and there is little sign of that enjoyment fading.
Spain are firmly in the conversation too. A dominant display against Austria, described by manager Luis de la Fuente as “almost perfect”, showed La Roja shifting through the gears. Lamine Yamal continues to improve with each passing match, and goalkeeper Unai Simón is yet to concede at this tournament. With Mikel Oyarzabal delivering in front of goal, Spain look every bit as dangerous as France.
Argentina, meanwhile, remain unbeaten and carry the tournament’s top scorer in Lionel Messi. However, their last-32 tie against Cape Verde was far closer than many expected, with the world champions twice allowing their opponents back into the game. The physical toll of playing 120 minutes in the Miami heat will be a genuine concern ahead of their last-16 meeting with Egypt, with Messi and teammates visibly exhausted at the final whistle.
England: Tuchel Has Work to Do
For UK supporters watching England, the performance against the Democratic Republic of the Congo will have made for uncomfortable viewing. Harry Kane was clinical when it mattered, but beyond his contribution the display was, as The Guardian described it, pedestrian and disjointed. The defence looked shaky and Thomas Tuchel faces a significant challenge sharpening his side before a last-16 clash with co-hosts Mexico — a team that thrives in front of a roaring home crowd, propelled by the exciting Gilberto Mora.
Morocco were another side that caught the eye, forcing extra time against the Netherlands via a 91st-minute Issa Diop goal before winning on penalties. Head coach Mohamed Ouahbi said his team has “gained everybody’s respect now”, a sentiment that is hard to argue with given they have also drawn with Brazil in this tournament.
Elsewhere, Norway’s Erling Haaland grabbed a decisive winner against CĂ´te d’Ivoire, and Brazil turned a half-time deficit against Japan into a comfortable victory with VinĂcius JĂşnior leading the fightback.
For a full breakdown of how the groups played out and where every team stands heading into the knockout rounds, visit our World Cup 2026 hub or check the live standings.