World Cup 2026 South America Preview: Argentina, Brazil, and More

South America produces the world’s most technically gifted and tactically astute football nations. CONMEBOL sends six teams to 2026, and at least two — Argentina and Brazil — are genuine title contenders.

Argentina (Group J) 🇦🇷

The defending world champions arrive in 2026 with the weight of expectation on their shoulders. Repeating as champions is extraordinarily difficult — no team has done it since Brazil in 1958 and 1962. Their Group J draw against Algeria, Austria, and Jordan is favourable, but the real test begins in the knockout rounds.

Brazil (Group C) 🇧🇷

Five-time champions and perennial favourites, Brazil are in Group C with Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland. This is a group they must win. Brazil’s squad combines explosive attacking talent with a much-improved defensive structure. A sixth World Cup title is their target.

Colombia (Group K) 🇨🇴

Colombia in Group K alongside Portugal, DR Congo, and Uzbekistan will need to navigate past a strong Portuguese side. Colombia are one of the most technical and physically powerful sides in South America, with world-class individual talent throughout the squad.

Uruguay (Group H) 🇺🇾

Uruguay in Group H face Spain, Cape Verde, and Saudi Arabia. The Spanish are clear group favourites, but Uruguay’s experience and defensive quality should see them through for second place. In the knockout stage, they are always dangerous opponents.

Ecuador (Group E) 🇪🇨

Ecuador are in Group E with Germany, Curaçao, and Ivory Coast. They should be competitive for second place, with home-continent familiarity and a well-drilled squad.

Paraguay (Group D) 🇵🇾

Paraguay in Group D alongside USA, Australia, and Türkiye are the underdogs but can never be taken lightly. Paraguay’s physical style and tactical discipline make them difficult opponents.

Predict every South American result in our World Cup 2026 prediction game.