Argentina's World Cup 2026 opening win ranks them below top teams after experts' review

Experts ranked every World Cup 2026 team after their first matches, with Argentina's emphatic win not placing them at the top.

Top teams after opening matches Experts evaluated every World Cup 2026 team after watching their first game. Argentina started their title defense with a commanding victory, yet experts did not place them at the top of the rankings. England impressed with a four-goal haul, though defensive concerns lingered. France’s attacking display, led by Harry Kane, suggested they could be favorites. Spain’s opening game featured seven goals, making them impossible to overlook despite the opposition’s perceived weakness. ## South American teams shine early Brazil looked unsteady in the opening 20 minutes but held firm to secure a draw, showing resilience. Colombia delivered a slick performance, overwhelming Paraguay with a star-studded lineup featuring Erling Haaland and Luis Diaz. Argentina’s strong second-half surge highlighted their depth across every position. Meanwhile, Mexico’s late red card against South Africa was a setback after their dominant display. ## European contenders show mixed form Germany struggled to break down the Czech Republic despite dominating possession, eventually finding a late winner. Portugal suffered a shock loss to South Korea, though their attacking display included two fine goals against England. France nearly took the lead against Senegal but were denied by a post in the first half. Switzerland overpowered Tunisia with a commanding performance, ending their tournament with a heavy defeat. ## African and Asian surprises Senegal nearly upset France but fell short, leaving questions about their finishing. Cape Verde held Spain to a draw in their World Cup debut, defying expectations. Japan stunned Saudi Arabia with a late equalizer after dominating the match. South Korea’s organized defense shocked Portugal, proving they could compete with Europe’s elite. ## Dark horses and underdogs Turkey, considered strong favorites on paper, fell to a pacy Jamaica side. Iraq held Norway to a draw despite Haaland’s presence, showing defensive resilience. Tunisia sacked their manager following a poor opening display, marking a historic moment. Ghana’s late winner against Algeria left the latter stunned after a lackluster performance. ## Group-stage struggles Scotland missed key chances against tough opponents but showed physicality. Panama needed a dramatic 95th-minute winner to beat Costa Rica, raising concerns about their consistency. Ecuador looked poor against Portugal before Amad Diallo’s introduction sparked hope. The Czech Republic squandered a lead, struggling to maintain their earlier momentum. ## Goalkeepers and veterans steal the spotlight Veteran goalkeeper Vozinha inspired Cape Verde’s draw against Spain, earning praise as a surprise package. Cristiano Ronaldo’s presence lifted Portugal’s attack, though defensive frailties remained evident. Lionel Messi’s influence kept Argentina competitive, even if their opening win didn’t secure top billing. Nicolas Jackson nearly gave Senegal the lead against France with a post-hit effort. ## Statistical standouts from matchday one England recorded four goals but could have added more, showcasing their attacking potential. Colombia’s slick performance included seven goals, highlighting their dominance. Germany had 28 shots against Saudi Arabia before securing a late equalizer. Saudi Arabia’s defensive struggles resulted in a 7-1 defeat, marking one of the tournament’s worst performances. ## Coaching and managerial drama Tunisia parted ways with their manager after a disastrous opening game, signaling internal turmoil. Marcelo Bielsa’s side struggled with finishing despite dominating possession against Saudi Arabia. Tunisia’s involvement in one of the tournament’s worst games ended with a late Ghanaian winner. Algeria’s poor display against Ghana left fans questioning their tournament prospects.