Team: Brazil

Brazil come to 2026 with a point to prove after a painful quarterfinal exit in Qatar. The five time world champions have not lifted the trophy since 2002 and carry the weight of an entire nation's expectation into every tournament. Vinicius Jr leads the attack as the squad's most dangerous forward, supported by Rodrygo, Raphinha, and a generation of Brazilian talent established across Europe's biggest clubs. With a new coaching staff demanding a return to attacking football, Brazil arrive in North America as genuine favorites and with a generation of fans desperate for a sixth title.

They are always one of the teams to watch. New coach Carlo Ancelotti led Brazil to a 1-0 win over Paraguay on 10 June to maintain the nation's remarkable record of having featured at every edition of the World Cup.