A group without major powers promises strong competition, while Germany and the Netherlands are clear favorites to lead their sections.
Group D (USA, Turkiye, Australia, Paraguay)
The USA side aims to perform well on home soil for the first time since 1994. Under Mauricio Pochettino, the team ranked 16th seeks strong results in a group featuring Turkiye at 22 and Australia at 27.
Recent matches against Senegal and Germany offered preparation insights. Home support may boost experienced players like Christian Pulisic but could pressure others. Turkiye returns after 24 years and seeks a deep run similar to its 2002 third-place finish. Australia, present since 2006, has yet to win a knockout match. Paraguay, ranked 40th, aims to exceed expectations.
Best finishes: USA semifinals in 1930; Turkiye third in 2002; Australia round of 16 in 2006 and 2022; Paraguay quarterfinals in 2010.
Group E (Germany, Curacao, Ivory Coast, Ecuador)
Germany seeks to avoid a third straight early exit. With strong recent form and a ranking of 10, the four-time champion leads its group. Curacao, the smallest nation to qualify, is coached by 78-year-old Dick Advocaat. Ivory Coast returns after 12 years and will compete with Ecuador for second place.
Best finishes: Germany champion in 1954, 1974, 1990 and 2014; Curacao debut; Ivory Coast group stage from 2006 to 2014; Ecuador round of 16 in 2006.
Group F (Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, Tunisia)
The Netherlands has reached the knockout stage in every appearance since 1974. Ranked seventh, the team under Ronald Koeman faces Japan as its main rival for first place. Japan reached the round of 16 in 2018 and remains a threat despite lower expectations.
