Group E
FIFA World Cup 2026 · 4 teams · 6 matches · Top 2 advance
4
Teams
6
Matches
2
Advance
7.6
Difficulty
6.4
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 | 7.8 |
| 2 |  | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 6.5 |
| 3 |  | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5 |
Group Difficulty
⚔️ Competitive
Avg Power: 6.4 · Std Dev: 1.14 · Score: 6.4 + 1.14 = 7.6
Formula (WC26-GA-v1.0)
DifficultyScore = avg(PowerIndex) + stdDev(PowerIndex) = 6.4 + 1.14 = 7.6
Group Outlook
Group E features strong competition across all four teams. Netherlands enters as the strongest side (Power 7.8, #6 overall). Japan and Tunisia compete closely for the second qualifying position.
Generated deterministically from Power Index WC26-PI-v1.0. Not AI opinion.
Team-by-Team Analysis
Netherlands enters Group E as a strong contender with realistic knockout ambitions, ranked top in the group with a Power Index of 7.8. Their UEFA pedigree brings deep World Cup experience to the competition. Key strengths include a top-tier FIFA ranking (9/10), excellent squad depth (8/10), a massive global fanbase (8/10), a storied World Cup pedigree (8/10). This well-rounded profile makes them dangerous in any group stage scenario. As the group favorite, Netherlands will be expected to top the group. The biggest challenge comes from Japan (PI: 6.5), who are only 1.3 points behind. A slip against Tunisia could complicate advancement. Expect strong fan turnout for Netherlands matches — their global following ensures electric atmospheres at every group game. This is one of the most-watched teams in the tournament.
Japan enters Group E as a strong contender with realistic knockout ambitions, ranked second in the group with a Power Index of 6.5. Their AFC pedigree brings meaningful tournament experience to the competition. Key strengths include a massive global fanbase (7/10). These factors will be crucial in navigating the group. Japan are well-positioned for the second qualifying spot but face stiff competition from Netherlands (PI: 7.8). 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. Expect strong fan turnout for Japan matches — their global following ensures electric atmospheres at every group game. This is one of the most-watched teams in the tournament.
Tunisia enters Group E as a dark horse capable of springing surprises, ranked third in the group with a Power Index of 5. Their CAF pedigree brings limited World Cup history but fresh energy to the competition. Qualification will be challenging for Tunisia, sitting 2.8 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 Japan and competing closely with the top seeds could be enough. Tunisia 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 E
Browse Groups
Group analysis powered by Power Index WC26-PI-v1.0. Difficulty scores are deterministic. SeatNav is not affiliated with FIFA.