Updated
Updated · CBS Sports · Jun 2
Spain Tops 2026 World Cup Power Rankings as USMNT Climbs Into Top 12
Updated
Updated · CBS Sports · Jun 2

Spain Tops 2026 World Cup Power Rankings as USMNT Climbs Into Top 12

3 articles · Updated · CBS Sports · Jun 2

Summary

  • Spain was ranked No. 1 in the latest 2026 World Cup power rankings, with the tournament now 10 days away from its June 11 kickoff across the United States, Mexico and Canada.
  • The ranking leans on Spain’s depth and expected boost from Lamine Yamal, who is projected to return by the knockout stage despite his latest injury.
  • France was placed second and Argentina third, while Brazil and Portugal rounded out the top five as final squads were confirmed ahead of the 48-team tournament.
  • The United States entered the top 12 at No. 12, with Christian Pulisic’s goal in a friendly against Senegal cited as a sign he could drive a home-soil run.
  • The expanded event will feature 104 matches and 12 groups, with co-host Mexico opening against South Africa and the U.S. drawn with Australia, Paraguay and Turkiye.

Insights

Will the expanded 48-team format create legendary underdog stories or simply dilute the World Cup's elite quality?
In their final World Cup, can legends Messi or Ronaldo overcome team issues for one last glorious campaign?
With superstars dropped for loyalty, will Tuchel's shocking England squad be a masterstroke or a spectacular failure?