Mathematician Joachim Klement predicts the Netherlands will win the 2026 World Cup, leveraging his past successes to forecast their path to glory.

Iraq made it to the World Cup for the first time in 40 years via the most circuitous route. An epic 21-match qualification campaign that culminated in a 2-1 defeat of Bolivia in the Play-off Tournament eventually saw Graham Arnold’s men secure their place. They deserved better than to be placed in a group stacked full of such quality.

Argentina arrive at the World Cup looking a safe bet to mount a serious bid to retain their title. La Albiceleste ended a 36-year wait for their third triumph in Qatar in 2022, with inspirational captain Lionel Messi completing his incredible legacy with the most important honour that had long eluded his bulging trophy cabinet and without which,

World Cup Group I includes 2022 runners-up France, Senegal, Iraq and Erling Haalands Norway; matches to be played in US cities New Jersey, Philadelphia and Massachusetts, plus Canadas Toronto