The opening round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has delivered drama, goals, and plenty of early statements.
Lionel Messi produced a historic hat-trick for Argentina. Kylian Mbappé inspired France to victory with a brilliant brace. Erling Haaland announced his arrival on the World Cup stage with two goals for Norway.
But after the first wave of matches, two teams have separated themselves from the pack.
According to Scout90, the early favorites to lift the World Cup trophy are France and Germany.
France: The Team Everyone Must Beat
France entered the tournament as one of the strongest squads in world football.
After one match, nothing has changed.
Led by Kylian Mbappé, Les Bleus defeated Senegal and showcased the frightening depth that makes them such a dangerous opponent.
The terrifying reality for rival nations is that France possess an almost endless supply of attacking talent.
Ousmane Dembélé.
Désiré Doué.
Bradley Barcola.
Michael Olise.
Rayan Cherki.
And, of course, Mbappé himself.
No nation can match France’s combination of elite starters and world-class depth. They do not simply produce stars—they manufacture entire generations of them.
If France remain healthy and focused, they have everything needed to reach another World Cup final.
Germany’s Warning to the World
While France confirmed their status, Germany may have delivered the most impressive performance of the opening round.
A dominant 7-1 victory sent a clear message to every contender in the tournament.
For years, questions surrounded Germany’s future after disappointing international campaigns. Those doubts are beginning to disappear.
The new generation has arrived.
Germany look faster, more aggressive, and more creative than they have in years. Most importantly, they look confident.
Championship teams often reveal themselves through their mentality, and Germany’s ruthless opening performance suggested a team determined to reclaim its place at the top of world football.
The Challengers
Argentina remain a serious threat.
Messi’s historic hat-trick reminded the football world that greatness never fades. The defending champions possess experience, quality, and the belief that comes from winning the trophy before.
England have yet to begin their campaign but possess enough talent to challenge anyone.
Norway, powered by Erling Haaland, could become the tournament’s most dangerous dark horse.
Portugal, Spain, and Brazil cannot be ignored either.
Yet after the opening matches, France and Germany appear one step ahead.
Why France and Germany Stand Out
France have the tournament’s deepest squad.
Germany have produced the tournament’s most convincing team performance.
France rely on world-class stars capable of deciding matches in seconds.
Germany rely on collective strength, tactical discipline, and relentless intensity.
Different styles.
Same objective.
World Cup glory.
Scout90 Power Rankings
- France 🇫🇷
- Germany 🇩🇪
- Argentina 🇦🇷
- England 🏴
- Norway 🇳🇴
- Portugal 🇵🇹
- Spain 🇪🇸
- Brazil 🇧🇷
Final Verdict
It is still early.
World Cups are rarely won after one match.
But tournaments often reveal clues about who is ready for greatness.
France have the stars.
Germany have the momentum.
And after the opening round, Scout90 believes these are the two teams most likely to meet at the business end of the tournament.
The race is on.
And for now, France and Germany lead the pack.