Coaches react to the 2026 World Cup draw: from cautious optimism to bold ambitions

The draw for the 2026 World Cup, held on December 5 in Washington, caused a storm of emotions among coaches from all continents. The tournament will feature a record 48 teams for the first time, with matches played in the USA, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026. Forty-two teams are already confirmed, with six more to join in March through European and intercontinental playoffs.

Group J: Argentina are favourites, but rivals won’t back down

Algeria’s head coach Vladimir Petković stated that his team intends to fight for qualification despite the presence of the reigning world champions:

“This is a very interesting group… Argentina are the favourites, but we will fight for second place. We have a chance and intend to use it.”

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni admitted the group is tough:

“Austria and Algeria are teams deserving respect. We are updating the squad and want to arrive stronger.”

Group A: Mexico recalls the past, South Korea prepares analysis

South Korea’s coach Hong Myung-bo noted the difficulty of the group:

“There is no such thing as an easy World Cup draw. We will study our opponents in detail…”

Mexico coach Javier Aguirre called the group “interesting” and recalled the 2010 opening match vs. South Africa.

Group C: Brazil and Morocco prepare for high-profile clashes

Carlo Ancelotti admitted Brazil face a complicated group:

“Morocco are a top-level team, and Scotland are physically strong. We will need maximum focus.”

Morocco coach Walid Regragui said that the match against Brazil will be “a big test”, but his team is ready for an ambitious fight.

Group E: Germany to face styles from three continents

Julian Nagelsmann pointed out the unusual nature of the group:

“It’s difficult when there’s no other European team — we know less about the opponents. But it’s a challenge we’re ready for.”

Group G: Belgium’s emotions and nostalgia

Rudi Garcia admitted he’s looking forward to facing Egypt — mostly because of Mohamed Salah, whom he coached at Roma.

Group L: England and Croatia side by side again

England coach Thomas Tuchel said the team reached excellent form by the end of the year:

“We studied our opponents with pleasure, but now a long wait lies ahead. It’s important to maintain rhythm.”

Croatia’s Zlatko Dalić noted that England are favourites, but his squad has “a unique balance of youth and experience”.

Group K: Portugal and Colombia — duel of strategists

Roberto Martínez is satisfied with the schedule:

“We clearly understand how to prepare for the first match. The playoff team is still unknown, but Colombia and Uzbekistan are serious opponents.”

Voices of underdogs: Curaçao and Haiti enjoy the moment

Dick Advocaat highlighted the historic nature of Curaçao’s participation:

“We are a hardworking team, and it’s important for us to show character.”

Haiti coach Sébastien Migné called being drawn with Brazil “a celebration for the people.”