England given testing group as 2026 World Cup draw finalises global picture

England's group presents a balanced yet testing challenge as they prepare for another bid to end their long wait for a major title. Croatia's tournament pedigree is well established, while Ghana's athleticism and unpredictability could prove demanding. Panama, returning with valuable World Cup experience, will also be determined to frustrate higher-ranked opponents.

Germany enter the tournament with a demanding assignment of their own after being drawn alongside Ivory Coast, Ecuador and Curacao. With the squad undergoing a period of transition, the three-time champions will be expected to navigate a diverse mix of opponents as they aim to re-establish themselves among the world's elite.

Spain, meanwhile, will face Cape Verde, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia in a group that offers a blend of contrasting playing styles. Spain's technical strengths will be challenged by Uruguay's intensity and organisation, as well as Cape Verde's growing reputation as one of Africa's most tactically disciplined sides.

France also received an intriguing draw, landing in a group with Senegal, Norway and a play-off entrant. Senegal, reigning African champions, are expected to pose a serious threat, while Norway - buoyed by a new generation of emerging talent - add another layer of unpredictability.

For South Africa, the draw, which took place at the Kennedy Centre in Washington DC, delivered a nostalgic twist. Bafana Bafana will open their campaign against co-hosts Mexico at the iconic Estadio Azteca on 11 June - exactly 16 years to the day since Siphiwe Tshabalala's famous strike in the 1-1 draw between the sides in the 2010 World Cup opener at Soccer City.

Group A includes Mexico, South Africa, Korea Republic, and a European qualifier still to be determined from Play-Off Path D, which features Czech Republic or Ireland, and Denmark or North Macedonia. FIFA will confirm venues and kick-off times on Saturday.

Elsewhere, Argentina were drawn with Algeria, Austria and Jordan; Brazil with Morocco, Scotland and Haiti; Portugal with Uzbekistan, Colombia and a play-off entrant; and the USA with Paraguay, Australia and a European qualifier.

The 2026 World Cup, hosted across Mexico, the United States and Canada, will be the largest in history with 104 matches across 16 venues. Six qualification spots remain open and will be settled in March play-offs.

2026 FIFA World Cup draw

Group A: Mexico, South Africa, Korea Republic, Play-off Path D

Group B: Canada, Play-off Path A, Switzerland, Qatar

Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, Scotland

Group D: USA, Paraguay, Australia, Play-off Path C

Group E: Germany, Curacao, Ivory Coast, Ecuador

Group F: Netherlands, Japan, Play-off Path B, Tunisia

Group G: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand

Group H: Spain, Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay

Group I: France, Senegal, Play-off Path 1, Norway

Group J: Argentina, Algeria, Austria, Jordan

Group K: Portugal, Play-off Path 1, Uzbekistan, Colombia

Group L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama