A new simulation of the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage draw handed the U.S. men’s national team an immediate challenge, while the other two host nations, Mexico and Canada, could also be in for difficult games.
The official World Cup group stage draw takes place on Friday, with supporters from around the world preparing to learn the fates of their country. 42 of the 48 participants are confirmed, and they will learn their first three opponents for the tournament when the draw takes place—those still to contest the playoffs in March will also know what awaits them should they get through.
All countries heading to North America next summer are hopeful of avoiding one thing: the dreaded group of death.
And a new mock draw conducted by has handed Mauricio Pochettino and his USMNT side a difficult, yet manageable route through to the knockout stages.
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