Author Pairs 9 World Cup Contenders With College Football Programs Ahead of 2026 Tournament

3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jun 10

Nine 2026 World Cup contenders were matched with college football programs in a crossover analysis aimed at helping U.S. fans choose a team to follow.
The pairings lean on history, fan culture, trophies and recent form, casting Brazil as USC, Argentina as Alabama, France as Ohio State and England as Notre Dame.
The list also links the Netherlands to Oregon, Spain to Clemson, Belgium to Texas A&M, Germany to Georgia and the United States to Kentucky as a plucky host-nation underdog.
Fox's World Cup buildup also featured former USMNT midfielder Stu Holden, who said excitement around soccer in the U.S. is rising and suggested the national team could surprise in 2026.