Group K
FIFA World Cup 2026 · 4 teams · 6 matches · Top 2 advance
4
Teams
6
Matches
2
Advance
6.4
Difficulty
4.8
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 |
| 2 |  | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3.8 |
| 3 |  | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3.7 |
Group Difficulty
⚖️ Balanced
Avg Power: 4.8 · Std Dev: 1.53 · Score: 4.8 + 1.53 = 6.4
Formula (WC26-GA-v1.0)
DifficultyScore = avg(PowerIndex) + stdDev(PowerIndex) = 4.8 + 1.53 = 6.4
Group Outlook
Group K presents a balanced draw with clear tiers. Portugal enters as the strongest side (Power 7, #11 overall). Mali (3.8) is the likely challenger for second place. The lower-ranked sides face an uphill battle but could produce surprises in individual matches.
Generated deterministically from Power Index WC26-PI-v1.0. Not AI opinion.
Team-by-Team Analysis
Portugal enters Group K as a strong contender with realistic knockout ambitions, ranked top in the group with a Power Index of 7. Their UEFA pedigree brings meaningful tournament 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). This well-rounded profile makes them dangerous in any group stage scenario. As the group favorite, Portugal will be expected to top the group. The biggest challenge comes from Mali (PI: 3.8), who are only 3.2 points behind. A slip against Saudi Arabia could complicate advancement. Expect strong fan turnout for Portugal matches — their global following ensures electric atmospheres at every group game. This is one of the most-watched teams in the tournament.
Mali enters Group K as an underdog facing a significant challenge, ranked second in the group with a Power Index of 3.8. Their CAF pedigree brings limited World Cup history but fresh energy to the competition. Mali are well-positioned for the second qualifying spot but face stiff competition from Portugal (PI: 7). The key match will likely be against the group leader, where closing the 3.2-point Power Index gap on the pitch will be essential. Mali 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.
Saudi Arabia enters Group K as an underdog facing a significant challenge, ranked third in the group with a Power Index of 3.7. Their AFC pedigree brings limited World Cup history but fresh energy to the competition. Qualification will be challenging for Saudi Arabia, sitting 3.3 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 Mali and competing closely with the top seeds could be enough. Saudi Arabia 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 K
Browse Groups
Group analysis powered by Power Index WC26-PI-v1.0. Difficulty scores are deterministic. SeatNav is not affiliated with FIFA.