Group L

Belgium

ELITE8.2

Belgium enters Group L as one of the tournament favorites, ranked top in the group with a Power Index of 8.2. Their UEFA pedigree brings meaningful tournament experience to the competition. Key strengths include a top-tier FIFA ranking (10/10), excellent squad depth (9/10). These factors will be crucial in navigating the group. As the group favorite, Belgium will be expected to top the group. The biggest challenge comes from Croatia (PI: 7.6), who are only 0.6 points behind. A slip against Austria could complicate advancement.

Croatia

CONTENDER7.6

Croatia enters Group L as a strong contender with realistic knockout ambitions, ranked second in the group with a Power Index of 7.6. Their UEFA pedigree brings deep World Cup experience to the competition. Key strengths include a top-tier FIFA ranking (8/10), excellent squad depth (7/10), a storied World Cup pedigree (7/10). This well-rounded profile makes them dangerous in any group stage scenario. Croatia are well-positioned for the second qualifying spot but face stiff competition from Belgium (PI: 8.2). The key match will likely be against the group leader, where closing the 0.6-point Power Index gap on the pitch will be essential.

Uruguay

CONTENDER7.1

Uruguay enters Group L as a strong contender with realistic knockout ambitions, ranked third in the group with a Power Index of 7.1. Their CONMEBOL pedigree brings deep World Cup experience to the competition. Key strengths include a storied World Cup pedigree (7/10). These factors will be crucial in navigating the group. Qualification will be challenging for Uruguay, sitting 1.1 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 Austria and competing closely with the top seeds could be enough.

Austria

DARK HORSE6

Austria enters Group L as a dark horse capable of springing surprises, ranked fourth in the group with a Power Index of 6. Their UEFA pedigree brings limited World Cup history but fresh energy to the competition. Austria face the toughest road in Group L, with a 2.2-point deficit to the top-ranked team. Every match will be a test, but the 48-team format and best third-place qualification rule means even a single upset could change everything. Austria 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.

6 group matches will be played. Each team faces the other three once.

BelgiumvsCroatia

BelgiumvsUruguay

BelgiumvsAustria

CroatiavsUruguay

CroatiavsAustria

UruguayvsAustria