Group A
FIFA World Cup 2026 · 4 teams · 6 matches · Top 2 advance
4
Teams
6
Matches
2
Advance
6.4
Difficulty
5.2
Avg Power
Standings
Pre-tournament projection based on Power Index. Updated as matches are played.
| # | Team | P | W | D | L | GD | Pts | Power |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 6.6 |
| 2 |  | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5.3 |
| 3 |  | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3.6 |
Group Difficulty
⚖️ Balanced
Avg Power: 5.2 · Std Dev: 1.23 · Score: 5.2 + 1.23 = 6.4
Formula (WC26-GA-v1.0)
DifficultyScore = avg(PowerIndex) + stdDev(PowerIndex) = 5.2 + 1.23 = 6.4
Group Outlook
Group A presents a balanced draw with clear tiers. Mexico enters as the strongest side (Power 6.6, #13 overall). South Korea and South Africa compete closely for the second qualifying position. South Korea could be the wildcard — positioned to disrupt the favorites.
Generated deterministically from Power Index WC26-PI-v1.0. Not AI opinion.
Team-by-Team Analysis
Mexico enters Group A as a strong contender with realistic knockout ambitions, ranked top in the group with a Power Index of 6.6. Their CONCACAF pedigree brings meaningful tournament experience to the competition. Key strengths include a top-tier FIFA ranking (8/10), excellent squad depth (7/10), a massive global fanbase (8/10). This well-rounded profile makes them dangerous in any group stage scenario. As the group favorite, Mexico will be expected to top the group. The biggest challenge comes from South Korea (PI: 5.3), who are only 1.3 points behind. A slip against South Africa could complicate advancement. Expect strong fan turnout for Mexico matches — their global following ensures electric atmospheres at every group game. This is one of the most-watched teams in the tournament.
South Korea enters Group A as a dark horse capable of springing surprises, ranked second in the group with a Power Index of 5.3. Their AFC pedigree brings meaningful tournament experience to the competition. South Korea are well-positioned for the second qualifying spot but face stiff competition from Mexico (PI: 6.6). The key match will likely be against the group leader, where closing the 1.3-point Power Index gap on the pitch will be essential. South Korea may not command the biggest crowds, but underdog narratives drive some of the best World Cup moments. A strong opening result could galvanize both the team and neutral supporters.
South Africa enters Group A as an underdog facing a significant challenge, ranked third in the group with a Power Index of 3.6. Their CAF pedigree brings limited World Cup history but fresh energy to the competition. Qualification will be challenging for South Africa, sitting 3.0 Power Index points behind the group leaders. However, the expanded format — where the best 8 third-placed teams advance — gives them a realistic path to the Round of 32. Beating South Korea and competing closely with the top seeds could be enough. South Africa may not command the biggest crowds, but underdog narratives drive some of the best World Cup moments. A strong opening result could galvanize both the team and neutral supporters.
Group Matches
Match schedule will be confirmed after group draw finalization.
6 group matches will be played. Each team faces the other three once.
Teams in Group A
Mexico
CONCACAF
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South Korea
AFC
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South Africa
CAF
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Group analysis powered by Power Index WC26-PI-v1.0. Difficulty scores are deterministic. SeatNav is not affiliated with FIFA.