6 matches that will shake up the 2026 World Cup group stage

After the draw ceremony, the 2026 World Cup group stage heated up day by day as a series of matches considered the pinnacle of the tournament were revealed.

England - Croatia (Group L): The reunion between England and Croatia evokes memories of the 2018 World Cup semi-final. It was a regrettable defeat for the "Three Lions". This time, with a new generation of talents such as Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden or Bukayo Saka, England is determined to get revenge. But Croatia, under the leadership of conductor Luka Modric, is still an opponent that is never easy to defeat.

France - Norway (Group I): "Giants" face off against goal-scoring machines. The reigning runner-up France faces an interesting unknown in Norway as Erling Haaland is ready to challenge any defense. Kylian Mbappe and Haaland, two icons of modern football, promise to turn the match into a stage of explosive acceleration and finishing.

Portugal - Colombia (Group K): Portugal entered the 2026 World Cup with many expectations placed on Cristiano Ronaldo's shoulders. In the final World Cup, CR7 certainly wanted to shine to close out his legendary career. Meanwhile, Colombia revived strongly with a fast, attacking style of play. A match full of openness and potential for surprises.

Spain - Uruguay (Group H): "La Roja" of the young generation Pedri, Gavi and Lamine Yamal will face an unpredictable Uruguay with an energetic style of play. The reigning Euro champions are considered World Cup favorites and they need to show that right away in the match against Uruguay.

Brazil - Morocco (Group C): Brazil has always been a champion candidate, but Morocco - the phenomenon of the 2022 World Cup, is no longer a phenomenon. They have truly become a force with a cohesive playing style and disciplined defense. This match will test the true ambition of the "Selecao".

Netherlands - Japan (Group F): Japan enter the 2026 World Cup in a completely different position after their shocking performance in Qatar, defeating both Germany and Spain in the group stage. Coach Hajime Moriyasu's team is no longer an unknown. Therefore, the "Orange whirlwind" must maintain maximum concentration if they want to overcome an increasingly confident Japan and ready to create another shock in the group stage.

World Cup 2026 group stage draw results.

Source: https://znews.vn/6-cap-dau-lam-rung-chuyen-vong-bang-world-cup-2026-post1608899.html