Our Predictions for the Kings World Cup Nations 2026
by Geoffrey Ejiga | by Geoffrey Ejiga
Another Final Run for Brazil?
Last year's tournament in Turin saw Brazil crowned as the first-ever Kings World Cup Nations champions. They thrashed Colombia 6-2 in a thrilling final at Juventus Stadium, with Kelvin Oliveira stealing the show with a hat-trick to claim the Top Scorer award. The Brazilians were dominant throughout, beating Mexico 3-1 in the semifinals and never looking in serious trouble.
But this time around, the hosts find themselves in Group D alongside Spain, Peru, and Qatar. On paper, it's a manageable draw. But a Brazil-Spain clash for group supremacy early on would not only make for must-watch football, but could weaken the champions' momentum ahead of the knockouts.
Colombia and Argentina: The South American Challengers
Colombia were last year's runners-up and will be determined to get the job done in the second edition, especially with James Rodríguez serving as captain and providing sideline inspiration for the Cafeteros. They're placed in Group A alongside Chile, Morocco, and the Netherlands, a tough draw that includes fellow 2025 semifinalists Morocco.
Morocco's Atlas Lions were the story of the 2025 edition, reaching the semifinals and creating the tournament's most-watched moment before the final, and they'll be hungry to recreate that run. You can also expect fireworks when Colombia and Morocco meet in the group stage, just as they did in their incredibly tight semifinal clash last year.
Then there's Argentina in Group B. Captained by Kun Agüero, the Albiceleste are always a threat in any competition they enter. They secured a direct quarterfinal spot last year before bowing out to Mexico. This time, they face Germany, Japan, and the USA in what looks like the most competitive group in the tournament. Argentina's pedigree makes them contenders, but they'll need to navigate a tricky path just to reach the knockout rounds.
Mexico Looking to Make a Statement
Mexico were semifinalists last year, falling 3-1 to eventual champions Brazil. With Miguel Layún serving as captain, El Tri have serious ambitions for this tournament. They're in Group E with India, Indonesia, and Saudi Arabia, which is arguably the most favorable draw any top contender could have hoped for.
If Mexico can cruise through the group stage as expected, they'll enter the knockout rounds fresh and ready to challenge. Their experience from last year's deep run, combined with what appears to be a kind bracket, makes them a smart pick to reach at least the semifinals again.
The European Contenders: France, Germany, and Italy
Europe's hopes rest primarily with France, Germany, and Italy (nations with active Kings Leagues and established player pools). France and Italy are drawn together in Group C alongside Algeria and Poland, setting up an immediate European showdown. Italy, who hosted the 2025 edition, will want to make amends after Japan stunned them 3-1 in the opening match last year.
Germany is in the so-called "group of death" with Argentina, Japan, and the USA. Danny Blum leads the squad on the pitch, and the Germans showed promise last year despite being knocked out by Mexico in the Last Chance round. This time, they'll need to hit the ground running just to survive.
Chile: The Dark Horses
Don't overlook Chile. With legendary figure Arturo Vidal serving as captain, the Chileans have a point to prove. They're in Group A and will fancy their chances of causing an upset or two.
The Netherlands, led by Wesley Sneijder, could also spring a surprise. And Japan, fresh from beating hosts Italy in the opening match of the 2025 edition, has proven it can compete with anyone. They're in Group B and won't be intimidated by Argentina or Germany.
Algeria is making its tournament debut after replacing Belgium late in the process. The newcomers will be eager to make a statement, though their chances of knockout action are slim, considering their Group C pairing with France and Italy.
Our Prediction
While Brazil will carry the weight of home expectation, we think last year’s runner-ups have the upper hand. Colombia has unfinished business after last year's final defeat. With James Rodríguez providing the inspiration, and last edition’s Best Goalkeeper winner, Camilo Gaviria, between the sticks, Colombia has the quality and motivation to go all the way this time.
Our Kings World Cup Nations 2026 winner prediction: Colombia wins the title!
