As the World Cup kick-off approaches, teams from across the globe arrive with contrasting narratives, some seeking redemption, others chasing history, and a few hoping simply to belong.
From war-torn qualifiers to rising underdogs, this tournament promises a mix of experience, ambition and uncertainty.
Sweden returns to the World Cup determined to restore their reputation after a shaky qualifying campaign. Under new coach Graham Potter, they recovered from near-elimination to secure their place via the playoffs. With attacking responsibility falling on Viktor Gyökeres and Alexander Isak, the Swedes will look to rediscover the discipline and belief that once made them formidable.
Tunisia arrived unbeaten in qualifying and without conceding a goal, but doubts linger over their attacking threat. Coach Sabri Lamouchi has reshaped the squad, bringing in younger players while relying on Hannibal Mejbri for creativity. Their disciplined approach will be tested in a demanding group.
Iraq’s return to the World Cup after a 40-year absence has already drawn attention. Led by striker Aymen Hussein, the squad combines seasoned veterans with emerging talent. Facing a challenging group featuring France and Senegal, Iraq will look to make its mark on the tournament stage.
Japan enter their eighth consecutive tournament with growing confidence after victories over major teams like Brazil and England. However, they must overcome a history of last-16 exits. With a strong European-based squad, coach Hajime Moriyasu believes this could finally be the year they progress deeper.
The Netherlands enter the tournament with ambitions of challenging for the title, though questions remain over their form and overall squad depth. Much could depend on key figures such as Frenkie de Jong and Memphis Depay, while coach Ronald Koeman remains confident in his side's prospects. If the Dutch can find consistency, their experience could prove a decisive asset.
Ecuador’s squad carries powerful personal stories, with many players emerging from poverty to reach the global stage. Led by Moisés Caicedo, they blend resilience with technical strength. Their objective is clear: to surpass their historic last-16 finish and prove their growth.
World Cup debutants Curaçao may be among the tournament’s smallest nations, but a squad featuring many players developed in the Dutch system should ensure they remain competitive. Under veteran coach Dick Advocaat, the team has developed a disciplined and organized approach capable of frustrating more fancied opponents, even if expectations remain modest.
As hosts, Mexico face enormous expectations while still haunted by decades of underachievement. The so-called “curse” of failing to reach the quarter-finals remains their central challenge. With home support behind them, they are expected to progress, but doubts over identity persist.
South Korea enter the tournament reliant on veteran Son Heung-min, whose form remains under scrutiny. With limited depth behind him, coach Hong Myung-bo may need to adapt quickly. The team retains potential to surprise but faces an uncertain transition.
Returning after a long absence, the Czech Republic bring a physical and disciplined style under coach Miroslav Koubek. Without major stars, they will rely on defensive organisation and set pieces. Their approach may lack flair but could prove effective in tight matches.
Co-hosts Canada aim to move beyond participation and establish themselves as genuine competitors. With players like Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David, they have the talent to reach the knockout stage, something they have yet to achieve.
Veteran striker Edin Džeko leads a new generation of Bosnian players, including rising talents like Kerim Alajbegovic. The mix of experience and youth has created optimism, with the team hoping to progress beyond the group stage.
After a disappointing home tournament in 2022, Qatar returns with renewed confidence following two Asian Cup titles. Built on cohesion and a strong domestic core, they aim to translate regional success onto the world stage.
Switzerland arrive in excellent form, unbeaten in recent matches, yet burdened by a history of early exits. With an experienced squad led by Granit Xhaka, they believe they can finally break into the later rounds.
Brazil’s story may centre on Neymar, whose return after injuries has sparked debate. Now 34, this could be his last World Cup, adding emotional weight to Brazil’s campaign. Despite uncertainties, they remain among the favourites.
Morocco’s stunning semi-final run in 2022 has raised expectations dramatically. However, internal changes and pressure from supporters may complicate their campaign. Replicating past success will be challenging.
Haiti return after more than 50 years, bringing hope to a country facing severe challenges. With a diaspora-based squad and limited preparation at home, their presence alone is a significant achievement.
Scotland returns to the World Cup for the first time since 1998, hoping to finally progress beyond the group stage. With an expanded format offering more opportunities, belief is growing among players and fans.
For co-hosts USA, this is a defining tournament. With rising talent and home support, expectations are high. A strong run could transform the sport’s status domestically.
Paraguay’s turnaround under coach Gustavo Alfaro has been remarkable. A disciplined, mentally driven squad will aim to build on an impressive qualifying campaign.
Australia continue their run of World Cup appearances with a team built on structure and resilience. While lacking global stars, they remain difficult opponents capable of upsetting stronger teams.
Türkiye’s young talent, led by Arda Güler, has raised hopes of a new era. However, inconsistency continues to be a concern, making their campaign unpredictable.
Germany seeks to restore their reputation after back-to-back early exits. Despite strong individual talent, questions remain over cohesion and consistency under coach Julian Nagelsmann.
As the tournament begins, these stories will collide on the world stage, where past form counts for little and new heroes are always waiting to emerge.
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Iran's football team has thanked Los Angeles for its hospitality, after a goalless draw with Belgium kept the side's hopes of reaching the World Cup knockout stages.
Cape Verde’s remarkable FIFA World Cup debut continued on Sunday (21 June) as the tournament newcomers held Uruguay to a 2-2 draw. Goalkeeper Vozinha was once again at the centre of the story, this time with his mother watching from the stands.
The Netherlands and Japan moved level on points at the top of Group F after convincing wins, while Germany progressed to the knockout stage and Curaçao claimed their first World Cup point with a draw against Ecuador.
The United States will continue reviewing Iran's travel arrangements at the 2026 World Cup, but current restrictions remain in place despite Tehran's plans to lodge a complaint with FIFA, a White House official said.
At least thirteen people have died and sixty-six have been injured following an explosion at Qatar's main liquefied natural gas (LNG) processing hub at Ras Laffan, authorities said on Sunday.
Cape Verde’s remarkable FIFA World Cup debut continued on Sunday (21 June) as the tournament newcomers held Uruguay to a 2-2 draw. Goalkeeper Vozinha was once again at the centre of the story, this time with his mother watching from the stands.
Tehran has agreed to let the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) recommence inspections of its nuclear programme, U.S. Vice President JD Vance has said. The U.S. and Iran have settled on a 60-day roadmap aimed at reaching a final deal, according to mediators Qatar and Pakistan.
Armenia and Azerbaijan have agreed on a landmark internet deal that will allow traffic to pass through Azerbaijani networks.It's the latest deal to highlight the ongoing peace process between the two countries.
Three students have been killed and at least seven injured after two of their peers opened fire in a high school in the Philippines, police said. A spokesperson for the police said the two suspects, aged 14 and 15, had been arrested and a police pistol confiscated. Bullying is a possible motive.
The European Union is set to host Taliban officials in Brussels for talks on migration, marking the first known visit by the group to an EU meeting since it returned to power in Afghanistan in 2021.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has said the country must continue strengthening its nuclear capabilities to deal with what he described as an increasingly unstable global security environment.
Andy Burnham, the frontrunner to be Britain’s next Prime Minister, was sworn in as a member of Parliament on Monday, just hours after Keir Starmer announced his resignation from the top job.
Start your day informed with the AnewZ Morning Brief. Here are the top stories for 23 June, covering the latest developments you need to know.
A shooting in Montreal, Canada has left three people dead, including a police officer, a civilian and the suspected attacker, police said.
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