• See also: Haaland’s Test: Norway vs Senegal Prediction — 23.06.2026

• Jordan has lost its last three matches.
• Jordan is winless in its last six games.
• Algeria has only conceded in one of its last five matches.
• The teams have played one friendly, back in 2004, which ended in a 1-1 draw.

Jordan is making its World Cup debut after a confident qualifying campaign in the Asian zone. The team showcased disciplined football, focusing on an organized defense and rapid counter-attacks.

Leading up to the tournament, Jordan’s form was far from convincing, with several defeats in friendlies. The level of competition at the World Cup is much higher, something that became evident in the opening round.

In their first group match of World Cup 2026, Jordan fell 1-3 to Austria, but left a decent impression. The team netted its first-ever World Cup goal and created several dangerous chances against a more experienced opponent. Despite the loss, Jordan showed it’s capable of challenging even European sides.

The team’s key player remains Mousa Tamari, who plays for Rennes and is the main creative force. Much of their transition from defense to attack depends on his actions in the final third.

• See also: A favorite with vulnerabilities: prediction for France vs Iraq - 23.06.2026

Algeria stormed through African qualifying and returns to the World Cup after missing previous editions. Under Vladimir Petković, the team plays organized football, emphasizing ball control and attacking play. During qualification, Algeria was prolific in front of goal and cruised to the top of their group.

Their World Cup opener couldn’t have gone much worse — a 0-3 defeat to Argentina. Despite the heavy loss, the North Africans showed flashes of promise in positional attacks but failed to capitalize on their chances. The individual brilliance of the opposition, especially Messi, was decisive.

Before the World Cup, Algeria was in fine form: they won most of their qualifiers and displayed defensive stability. Notably, they went on an unbeaten run, conceding very few goals. That reliability was crucial in securing their World Cup spot.

Against Jordan, Algeria will be desperate to make amends for their rocky start. With a higher individual skill level and greater squad depth, they hold a clear advantage. The key factor will be converting their chances — something that was missing against Argentina.

• Jordan: Abulaila, Al-Arab, Nassib, Abu Al-Nadi, Abu Taha, Haddad, Al-Rashdan, Al-Rawabdeh, Al-Fakhouri, Olwan, Tamari.
• Algeria: Zidane, Bensebaini, Mandi, Belaid, Belghali, Ait-Nouri, Zerrouki, Boudaoui, Mahrez, Amoura, Maza.

Given the opening results, both teams enter this match under serious pressure. That said, Algeria looks more structured and superior in terms of squad quality and depth. If Algeria can dictate the tempo and prevent Jordan from breaking on the counter, the North Africans should have a clear edge. My pick: Mahrez and company to win.

• See also: Haaland’s test: Norway vs Senegal prediction — 23.06.2026

Jordan lost to Austria, but the performance was far more intriguing than one might expect from a World Cup debutant. Jamal Sellami’s side didn’t park the bus, instead trying to build attacks through their technical players and even managed to equalize shortly after halftime. Yes, there were structural issues, but the courage and quality in possession proved that their Asian Cup final run was no fluke.

After the match, Sellami took responsibility for the defeat and backed his players - an important gesture for the team’s morale. The main threat for Algeria is Ali Olwan, who scored Jordan’s first-ever World Cup goal and now has a chance to close in on Hamza Al-Dardour’s record. But there’s a weak spot: under sustained pressing, Jordan make mistakes, and set pieces were a real problem for them against Austria.

Algeria opened their campaign with a painful loss to Argentina, conceding three goals and failing to register a single shot on target. For Vladimir Petkovic’s men, the result isn’t a catastrophe by itself, but there’s now almost no margin for error—three points are a must to stay in a strong position ahead of the third group match against Austria. One worrying factor is Algeria’s physical condition; reportedly, they’re struggling more than any other team with the time zone changes at this World Cup.

The coaching staff is preparing significant changes: at least three line-up adjustments are expected, along with a switch from 4-2-3-1 to a 3-4-3 formation. Riyad Mahrez is set to return to the starting XI and could make his first World Cup start, while Luca Zidane, despite mistakes against Argentina, is likely to be given another chance in goal. Algeria regularly struggle against tournament favorites, but look far more confident against lesser opponents - a trend confirmed by their Africa Cup of Nations results, World Cup qualifiers, and resounding wins over Guatemala and Bolivia.

• Jordan: Abu Layla, Abualnadi, Al Arab, Naseeb, Abu Taha, Al Rawabdeh, Al-Rashdan, Haddad, Al-Fakhouri, Tamari, Olwan.
• Algeria: Zidane, Bensebaini, Mandi, Belaid, Belghali, Boudaoui, Meza, Ait-Nouri, Mahrez, Chaibi, Gouiri.

• Jordan lost 1-3 to Austria in their opening match.
• Algeria were beaten 0-3 by Argentina and failed to record a shot on target.
• Jordan have avoided defeat in the first half in eight of their last ten official matches.
• Algeria have received at least as many yellow cards as their opponents in regular time in seven of their last eight World Cup matches.
• Jordan have taken at least three corners in regular time in their last eight World Cup and World Cup qualifying matches.

Jordan have already shown they won’t just be making up the numbers at this World Cup. The team have courage, technical skills, and plenty of energy, and that historic first World Cup goal should only boost their confidence. But the Austria match also revealed that Jordan lose focus and make mistakes under pressure, especially on set pieces.

Algeria’s opening was a flop, but on paper, they still have the edge in talent and experience. The return of Mahrez, a tactical shift, and high tournament motivation should make the North Africans far more aggressive and focused than they were against Argentina. If Petkovic’s side can quickly transition and keep the pressure on Jordan’s defense, it will be tough for the Jordanians to keep up the tempo for the full 90 minutes.

• Also read: Argentina vs Austria: a test of ambition and Messi's new stage entrance - 22.06.2026

Jordan impressed many observers despite the defeat to Austria. Jamal Sellami's team played with courage, created 11 shots and even matched the Europeans for long stretches of the game. Ali Olwan etched his name into Jordanian football history by scoring the nation's first-ever World Cup goal, while Mousa Tamari once again showed why he is the team's biggest attacking threat.

However, Jordan's lack of experience at this level ultimately proved costly. An own goal and a late penalty conceded highlighted defensive vulnerabilities that could become a major issue against another technically gifted opponent.

• Possible Jordan lineup: Abulaila, Abualnadi, Al Arab, Nasib, Haddad, Al Rashdan, Al Rawabdeh, Abu Taha, Tamari, Olwan, Al Fakhouri.

Algeria also suffered a disappointing start, falling 3-0 to Argentina. The scoreline looks harsh considering the Desert Foxes actually enjoyed 52% possession and completed 92% of their passes. Their biggest problem was in the final third, where they failed to register a single shot on target despite spending significant periods on the ball.

Vladimir Petkovic's squad still possesses considerably more international experience than Jordan. Players such as Mohamed Amoura, Ismael Bennacer and Rayan Ait-Nouri have competed at a much higher level and will be desperate to respond after the opening defeat. Algeria also arrived in the United States after an outstanding qualifying campaign, winning eight of ten matches and finishing comfortably atop their African qualifying group.

• Possible Algeria lineup: Zidane, Belaid, Mandi, Bensebaini, Ait-Nouri, Zerrouki, Boudaoui, Belghali, Mahrez, Amoura, Maza

• Jordan lost 3-1 to Austria despite committing costly defensive mistakes.
• Algeria had 52% possession and 92% passing accuracy against Argentina.
• Jordan are making their first-ever World Cup appearance.
• Algeria are playing in their fifth World Cup and have significantly more tournament experience.
• Jordan have conceded three goals in each of their last two matches against World Cup-level opposition.
• Mohamed Amoura scored 10 goals during Algeria's qualification campaign.
• Algeria have lost just once in their last ten qualifying matches before the World Cup.

Jordan deserve credit for their fearless performance against Austria, but this matchup may suit Algeria much better. The African side will not face the same level of pressure that Argentina applied and should enjoy plenty of possession throughout the contest. While Jordan have shown they can create chances through Tamari and Olwan, their defensive errors remain a concern. Algeria possess greater squad depth, more international experience, and higher individual quality across the pitch. After failing to threaten Argentina, expect Petkovic's team to play with urgency knowing that anything less than three points would leave their qualification hopes hanging by a thread. The Desert Foxes should have enough quality to break down Jordan and secure a crucial victory. Recommended Bet: Algeria to Win

• See also: Algeria under pressure: prediction for Jordan vs Algeria — 23.06.2026

Portugal disappointed in their opener, drawing with DR Congo. Roberto Martínez’s side dominated possession, but their control was far too sterile and rarely translated into real danger. The Congolese expertly switched between a 5-3-2 and a 5-4-1, closed down spaces, and managed to neutralize most of the favorite’s attacking potential.

One of the main issues was the lack of activity on the right flank before halftime and Cristiano Ronaldo’s low involvement in the game. The introduction of Francisco Conceição brought a spark—he created two chances in the second half and may well earn a place in the starting XI. Rúben Dias is expected to return to defense, but systemic problems persist: Portugal have conceded in six of their last eight matches, and the absence of a true holding midfielder continues to pose risks.

Uzbekistan played their first-ever World Cup match and fell 1-3 to Colombia. Fabio Cannavaro’s team didn’t collapse, managed to create a few chances, scored through Abbosbek Fayzullaev, and late on Akmal Mozgovoy struck the woodwork. However, their attack lacked real edge overall, especially on set pieces, where Uzbekistan ranked among the weakest teams of the opening round.

Significant lineup changes are possible for the second match. Utkir Yusupov made a costly error for Colombia’s second goal, so Abduvohid Nematov has a real chance to start, while Behruz Karimov may give way to Farrukh Sayfiev after a tough outing against Luis Díaz. Another concern is the injury to Rustam Ashurmatov: if the key center-back can’t play, young Jahongir Urozov could step in.

• Portugal: Costa, Araújo, Dias, Mendes, Cancelo, Vitinha, Neves, Neto, Fernandes, Conceição, Ronaldo.
• Uzbekistan: Nematov, Abdullaev, Khusanov, Urozov, Sayfiev, Shukurov, Mozgovoy, Nasrullaev, Fayzullaev, Urunov, Shomurodov.

• At least 9 corners have been awarded in regular time in 12 of Portugal’s last 15 World Cup matches.
• No more than 3 yellow cards have been shown in regular time in 6 of Uzbekistan’s last 8 World Cup and World Cup qualifying matches.
• Both teams have scored in five of Portugal’s last eight matches and in five of Uzbekistan’s last seven games.
• These teams have never faced each other before.

Portugal still boasts far superior individual quality, but after a shaky start, they need not just a win, but a convincing performance. The return of Rúben Dias should solidify the backline, while Conceição starting could bring more life and aggression to the right flank. This is also a promising fixture for Ronaldo: Uzbekistan’s defense has already shown it struggles to maintain focus against top-tier opponents for a full 90 minutes.

Uzbekistan can find their chance, especially given Portugal’s less-than-perfect off-the-ball balance. But for Cannavaro’s side, with Martínez’s men pushing the tempo and using the flanks more aggressively, it will be tough to withstand the pressure. Portugal’s class, squad depth, and the urgent need for redemption should deliver them a confident victory—even if it doesn’t come with a clean sheet.

The opening round in this group completely upended pre-tournament predictions. Portugal sensationally dropped points, while Uzbekistan played a historic debut match at the World Cup. Now, the favorites are under pressure to play for nothing less than a win, but the Asian side is ready to fight tooth and nail.

• Read also: Will African experience stop the unstoppable Haaland? World Cup Norway vs Senegal match prediction

On both official and friendly levels, Portugal and Uzbekistan have never met before. This clash in Houston at the NRG Stadium will open a brand new chapter in their head-to-head history.

The “European Brazilians” had a disastrous start at World Cup 2026, causing a media storm back home. Roberto Martinez’s men let victory slip away against DR Congo (1-1), showing a lackluster attacking performance (a poor xG of just 0.65 and only one shot on target all game). The main lightning rod for the press was 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo, who set a record as the oldest outfield player in World Cup history, but looked sluggish. At the press conference, Ruben Dias urged the team to “block out the external noise.” The federation even recommended players temporarily stay off social media. A win over Uzbekistan is absolutely vital for Portugal to regain confidence ahead of a decisive final fixture against Colombia.

Roberto Martinez is certain to address his side’s mistakes. The key positive news: defensive anchor Ruben Dias has fully recovered from injury and is expected to return to the starting lineup in place of Tomas Araujo. There’s also an expectation that the explosive Francisco Conceição will be introduced on the right wing to inject some vertical pace. The midfield will again be anchored by João Neves (who scored in the first round) and Vitinha, with Bruno Fernandes deployed as a pure playmaker.

Fabio Cannavaro’s team made history as the first Central Asian country ever to qualify for the World Cup. In the opening round, they lost 1-3 to a powerful Colombia side but left a very positive impression. The team’s brightest star, youngster Abbosbek Fayzullaev, etched his name into the record books by scoring Uzbekistan’s first-ever World Cup goal, temporarily leveling the score. The Uzbeks are disciplined, physically well-prepared, and will play with freedom, as all the pressure is on their opponents.

Fabio Cannavaro will opt for a deep defensive block with five at the back. The Italian coach knows that DR Congo managed to neutralize Portugal by crowding the danger zones. Uzbekistan will concede possession, flood their own penalty area, and look to strike on rare counterattacks using the pace of Fayzullaev and Eldor Shomurodov.

• Portugal: Costa - Cancelo, Dias, Veiga, Mendes - Vitinha, Neves, Fernandes - Silva, Neto, Ronaldo
• Uzbekistan: Yusupov - Khusanov, Urozov, Abdullaev - Karimov, Mozgovoy, Shukurov, Sayfiev - Fayzullaev, Khamrobekov, Shomurodov

The bookmakers continue to trust in the Europeans’ class, offering extremely low odds on a Portugal win. However, Portugal are clearly struggling to break down packed defenses, as the first round showed. Under Cannavaro, Uzbekistan will park the bus and build defensive barricades in their box. Don’t expect a goal fest here. My prediction: Under 3.5 total goals.

• See also: Argentina vs Austria: a test of ambition and Messi's new stage entrance - 22.06.2026

After the opening round, the group situation is anything but predictable. Portugal surprisingly dropped points against DR Congo—the match ended 1-1. That’s clearly not the result Roberto Martínez’s side or their fans were hoping for. Yes, the Portuguese controlled the game for long stretches, but they couldn’t turn that dominance into a win. Uzbekistan also lost their tournament debut, falling to Colombia 1-3.However, the final score is a bit misleading. The Asian side looked impressive at times and even managed to challenge one of the group’s favorites. For a team still gaining experience at this level, that’s already a statement. That’s why the upcoming match takes on huge importance for both teams.Portugal knows that dropping more points could make the race for first place in the group much tougher. Uzbekistan, meanwhile, are fighting to keep their knockout-stage dreams alive. Another defeat would leave them in a very tough spot heading into the final round.

The key question: how quickly can Portugal break down their opponents’ organized defense? The Europeans have no shortage of world-class stars capable of deciding the game with a single touch. But it’s often against disciplined, compact teams that Portugal runs into trouble.Uzbekistan will likely rely on quick counterattacks and set pieces. They know that playing open football against Portugal is far too risky. Expect the Asian team to try to keep the score level for as long as possible and wait for their chance up front.To be frank, there’s a clear gap in quality between the squads. Portugal has a stronger lineup in virtually every position and simply must win. But after their first-round stumble, the pressure is only mounting on the favorites—and sometimes, that plays into the underdog’s hands.

I expect Uzbekistan to put up a real fight, especially in the first half. However, over 90 minutes, the Portuguese stars’ class should shine through.Match prediction: over 2.5 total goals.Probable lineups:

• Portugal: D. Costa, J. Cancelo, R. Dias, R. Veiga, N. Mendes, Vitinha, J. Neves, F. Conceição, B. Fernandes, P. Neto, C. Ronaldo.
• Uzbekistan: U. Yusupov, A. Abdullaev, J. Urozov, A. Khusanov, F. Sayfiev, O. Shukurov, A. Mozgovoy, B. Karimov, O. Khamrobekov, A. Fayzullaev, E. Shomurodov.

• See also: Portugal needs a response: prediction for Portugal vs Uzbekistan — 23.06.2026

England started the tournament with a tough but very convincing result — a 4-2 win over Croatia. Thomas Tuchel's side allowed their opponent back into the match twice in the first half, but after the break, they shifted gears, ramped up the tempo, and unleashed a relentless onslaught on Dominik Livaković's goal. Most importantly, England showed real versatility: they can break down teams with patient possession — something often lacking under Gareth Southgate — and also strike quickly in transition when fresh legs come on.

Heading into the Ghana match, England's starting XI could become even stronger. Bukayo Saka came off the bench against Croatia to provide an assist, so it makes sense to expect him in the starting lineup instead of Noni Madueke. In defense, Ezri Konsa could be replaced by Marc Guéhi, while Marcus Rashford will likely remain Tuchel’s super-sub, ready to exploit tired defenders with his pace in the closing stages.

Ghana opened with a win over Panama, but the match itself was among the least impressive in terms of quality during the first round. There were plenty of technical errors, few truly dangerous chances, and the decisive goal for the Black Stars only came in added time thanks to Caleb Yirenkyi. In fact, Panama looked slightly better in the first half, so it's too early to say that Carlos Queiroz has built a solid defensive structure.

There’s some good news for Ghana ahead of the England clash. Thomas Partey is expected to return to the starting lineup, as the match will take place in the USA, not Canada, where he is ineligible to play. Lawrence Ati-Zigi's participation is still in doubt, but the goalkeeper has resumed training, and up front, Brandon Thomas-Asante could make the starting eleven after making a big impact against Panama and providing an assist.

• England: Pickford, Guéhi, Stones, O’Riley, James, Rice, Anderson, Gordon, Bellingham, Saka, Kane.
• Ghana: Asare, Adjetey, Opoku, Senaya, Mensah, Yirenkyi, Partey, Semenyo, Sulemana, Nuamah, Thomas-Asante.

• England has not taken more than 6 corners in regular time in 8 of their last 10 World Cup matches
• England has not received more than one yellow card in regular time in their last 6 World Cup matches
• In eight of England's last ten matches and seven of Ghana's last ten, only one team has found the net.

England looks like one of the most convincing teams of the opening round. Tuchel has a powerful attacking group, quality options on the bench, and several styles of play: possession-based control, high pressing, and rapid transitions. Saka’s return to the starting lineup should add width, sharpness, and an extra threat to Ghana’s defense.

With Queiroz at the helm, Ghana will likely try to be more disciplined and compact, especially with Partey back in midfield. But even Panama managed to create several dangerous moments for the Black Stars, and against the likes of Kane, Bellingham, Saka, and Gordon, every mistake could be fatal. England simply has more quality, greater defensive stability, and should see this match through to a comfortable victory.

• See also: Shelbourne finds their stride while Bohemians risk falling out of the European race: prediction for Shelbourne vs Bohemians - 22.06.2026

After the opening round, England tops the group thanks to a spectacular 4-2 victory over Croatia. Thomas Tuchel’s side put on a powerful attacking display, created a wealth of chances, and firmly established themselves as one of the most entertaining teams of the tournament’s opening week. Netting four goals against such a strong opponent is a bold statement of their World Cup ambitions.But Ghana, too, kicked off the tournament with confidence. The African side edged Panama 1-0 to claim three crucial points. Now sitting second in the group, Ghana knows that snatching a result against England would make a playoff berth a far more tangible goal.That’s why this upcoming showdown carries huge tournament significance. An England win would all but guarantee a place in the knockout rounds before the final group match. For Ghana, even a draw could prove to be worth its weight in gold.

England’s main strength right now is their attacking line. The team plays with pace and aggression, always looking to exploit the spaces between the opposition’s lines. They’re especially dangerous on quick transitions from defense to attack, where their young stars can get the ball upfield in a matter of seconds.

Ghana, meanwhile, rely on physicality, pace, and relentless battling. African teams have a knack for troubling favorites at major tournaments with their intensity and commitment, and this Ghanaian squad looks particularly organized and disciplined.Interestingly, the psychological pressure ahead of this match will rest more heavily on England. As tournament favorites, only victory is expected, whereas Ghana take to the field with nothing to lose. These dynamics often make World Cup matches wildly unpredictable.Nevertheless, the gap in quality and squad depth still favors England. If the Three Lions bring the same level they showed against Croatia, stopping them will be a tall order. But don’t expect a rout—Ghana have already shown in the first round that they can dig in and grind out results.I’m expecting a tense encounter, especially in the first half. Ghana will likely try to close down spaces and stay compact, while England look for ways to break through with speed and the individual brilliance of their stars.My prediction: total goals over 2.5Probable lineups:

• England: J. Pickford, R. James, E. Konsa, J. Stones, N. O'Reilly, E. Anderson, D. Rice, N. Madueke, J. Bellingham, A. Gordon, H. Kane.
• Ghana: B. Asare, G. Mensah, J. Opoku, J. A. Adjetey, M. Senaya, K. Sulemana, E. Owusu, C. Yirenkyi, E. Nuamah, J. Ayew, A. Semenyo

• See also: France vs Iraq prediction and betting tips 23 June 2026

England, under the guidance of Thomas Tuchel, put on a real show in their opening match, dismantling a powerful Croatia side 4-2. The Three Lions displayed stunning versatility and aggression in the final third, with Jude Bellingham and captain Harry Kane living up to their billing as tournament superstars, ruthlessly punishing Croatia for every defensive lapse. The only blemish for Tuchel was conceding twice late on, exposing some concentration issues at the back. In Boston, the German tactician aims to tighten up defensively, planning to suffocate the opposition with trademark counter-pressing and rapid ball movement from the very first whistle.

Ghana, meanwhile, pulled off a crucial and pragmatic win in their opener, narrowly edging a stubborn Panama side 1-0. The African squad showcased outstanding physical fitness and resilience under pressure, with their lightning-fast counterattacking style paying off at the perfect moment. Against the English, the Black Stars’ main tactical weapon will be a compact mid-block and blistering wing pace, which could spell major trouble for England’s high defensive line. Fully aware of the gap in class, Ghana will deliberately cede territory to the favorites, banking on set pieces and tenacious midfield play to disrupt Bellingham’s creative vision.

This clash in Massachusetts promises to be a classic case of relentless positional assault versus a well-drilled defensive fortress. England will seize total control of possession from the outset, pinning Ghana back in their own box and methodically probing for weaknesses with wide overloads. Ghana will coolly accept the underdog role, setting up a low defensive block and working to deny Kane any space to operate. Given England’s incredible squad depth, their red-hot attacking form after the win over Croatia, and clear superiority in individual quality, Tuchel’s men should be able to break down the African defense in the second half and claim a comfortable, professional victory.

England: Pickford – James, Stones, Guehi, O'Reilly – Anderson, Rice – Madueke, Bellingham, Gordon – KaneGhana: Asare – Senaya, Adjetey, Opoku, Minseh – Yirenkyi, Partey – Fatawu, Sulemana, Semenyo – Ayew

I expect both teams to play attacking football: we’re in for an entertaining, open match. My prediction: over 2.5 goals at 1.65

• Also read: England vs Ghana prediction: testing ambitions and character in the second round of the 2026 World Cup - 23.06.2026

Panama are appearing at only their second FIFA World Cup and continue to search for their first-ever victory on football's biggest stage. Their debut tournament in 2018 ended with three defeats against Belgium, England and Tunisia, and the start of their 2026 campaign brought another painful setback.

Thomas Christiansen's side looked set to earn a valuable point against Ghana in their opening Group L match. Panama controlled possession for long stretches, completing significantly more passes than their opponents and showing excellent defensive discipline. However, a dramatic goal conceded in the 95th minute handed Ghana a 1-0 victory and left Panama empty-handed.

Despite the defeat, there were positives. Panama demonstrated organization, patience and tactical discipline, qualities that helped them qualify confidently from the CONCACAF campaign. Their biggest concern remains creativity in the final third, especially with midfield leader Adalberto Carrasquilla still recovering from injury issues. Against Ghana, Panama enjoyed 62% possession but struggled to convert that control into clear scoring opportunities.

• Possible Panama Lineup: Mosquera, Blackman, Ramos, Cordoba, Andrade, Murillo, Martinez, Harvey, Rodriguez, Waterman, Barcenas.

Croatia arrive in Toronto under pressure after a 4-2 defeat to England in one of the most entertaining matches of the opening round. While the final score looked disappointing, the performance itself contained encouraging signs. The Croatians matched England for large portions of the first half and twice found the net against one of the tournament favorites.

This is Croatia's seventh World Cup appearance and a team that knows how to navigate pressure situations. The 2018 runners-up and 2022 third-place finishers possess one of the most experienced squads in the tournament. Players such as Luka Modric, Mateo Kovacic, Ivan Perisic and Josko Gvardiol have played on football's biggest stages and understand the importance of bounce-back performances.

The main concern for Zlatko Dalic is defensive stability. Croatia conceded four goals against England and allowed too many dangerous chances. However, facing Panama is a very different challenge compared to facing an attack led by Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham. Croatia should find considerably more space to control possession and dictate the tempo of the match.

This will also be the first-ever meeting between Panama and Croatia. With both teams sitting on zero points after the opening round, the stakes could hardly be higher. A draw would leave both sides in a difficult position heading into the final group match, making this a contest where both teams will likely push for all three points.

• Possible Croatia Lineup: Livakovic, Stanisic, Caleta-Car, Sutalo, Gvardiol, Modric, Sucic, Baturina, Pasalic, Perisic, Budimir.

• Panama have never won a World Cup match in their history.
• Croatia have reached the World Cup final once and finished third once in their last two appearances.
• Panama have managed only one goal across their first four World Cup games.

Panama deserve credit for their disciplined performance against Ghana, but they now face a Croatian side with far greater experience, technical quality and tournament pedigree. The Central Americans are usually comfortable defending deep and staying compact, yet Croatia possess the midfield intelligence and creativity to break down organized defensive structures. The defeat to England should also sharpen Croatia's focus. Dalic's team knows that anything less than a victory could leave them facing elimination. With Modric controlling the tempo, Perisic providing attacking threat from wide areas and a clear edge in individual quality across the pitch, Croatia should have enough to secure their first points of the tournament. Recommended Bet: Croatia to Win

• See also: Ghana has already surprised, but England looks terrifying: prediction for England vs Ghana - 23.06.2026

Panama came agonizingly close to snatching a point against Ghana. It was a cagey contest, full of physical battles and a shortage of real chances, but the "Canaleros" conceded in the 95th minute and suffered a 0-1 defeat. That marks their fourth consecutive loss in World Cup matches, and now they face back-to-back games against the European favorites in their group.

Panama now must play with more daring, as a draw is unlikely to change their fate in the standings. With England looming in the third round, this clash is their true opportunity to keep realistic hopes for the playoffs alive. The problem: in 2026, Panama has only two wins from eight games, conceding at least one goal each time, and they've managed to score two or more only in three matches.

Croatia and England delivered one of the most thrilling matches of the opening round, but for Zlatko Dalić's men, the outcome was painful. The "Checkered Ones" twice clawed their way back in the first half, but after the break, England shifted gears and punished Croatia's defensive lapses. The 2-4 defeat was Croatia's third loss in their five matches of 2026.

For the Panama game, the coaching staff is preparing changes and may switch to a 4-2-3-1 formation. Luka Vušković is set to make way, while Andrej Kramarić is expected to add dynamism between the lines. Mateo Kovačić is likely to partner Luka Modrić in midfield, with Ante Budimir—who netted 19 goals for Osasuna this season - possibly leading the attack.

• Panama: Mosquera, Ramos, Farina, Andrade, Carrasquilla, Godoy, Blackman, Murillo, Rodriguez, Martinez, Waterman.
• Croatia: Livaković, Stanišić, Gvardiol, Šutalo, Perišić, Kovačić, Modrić, Kramarić, Pašalić, Baturina, Budimir.

• Panama has lost all four of its World Cup matches to date.
• Croatia has suffered defeat in three of its five matches in 2026.
• Both teams have scored in five of Panama’s last six matches and in six of Croatia’s last seven games.

Panama needs to take risks now, as their defeat to Ghana has left them in a precarious tournament position. The return of Adalberto Carrasquilla and Aníbal Godoy to the starting lineup should strengthen the midfield and add balance, but against a side of Croatia’s caliber, it might not be enough. The real concern for the "Canaleros" is their persistent defensive frailty and lack of consistent attacking threat.

Croatia, too, is far from perfect - especially at the back. After conceding four to England, it’s hard to expect a stress-free outing, particularly as Panama will be forced to push forward. Still, in terms of class, experience, and attacking decision-making, Dalić’s team holds a clear edge, and the Modrić–Kovačić–Kramarić axis should grant Croatia control over the game’s key areas.

• Also read: Croatia on the brink of a slip-up: prediction for Panama vs Croatia - 24.06.2026

Colombia returned to the World Cup after missing the 2022 tournament and immediately reminded everyone why they are considered one of South America's strongest teams. Under Nestor Lorenzo, Los Cafeteros enjoyed an excellent qualifying campaign, recording major victories over both Brazil and Argentina on their way to securing a place at the tournament.

This is Colombia's seventh World Cup appearance. Their best result came in 2014 when they reached the quarter-finals, while James Rodriguez finished as the tournament's top scorer. The experienced playmaker is now leading a new generation that combines experience with pace and creativity.

Colombia began their World Cup campaign with a 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan. Daniel Munoz opened the scoring before Luis Diaz delivered a goal and an assist in a dominant attacking display. Jhaminton Campaz sealed the win deep into stoppage time. Colombia controlled 61% possession, completed 444 passes, and registered 15 shots, underlining their superiority throughout the match.

Luis Diaz was the standout performer and continues to be one of the most dangerous attacking players in the tournament. Alongside James Rodriguez, Richard Rios, Jefferson Lerma, and Jhon Arias, Colombia possess enough quality to trouble virtually any defense in the competition.

• Possible Colombia Lineup: Vargas, Munoz, Sanchez, Lucumi, Mojica, Lerma, Puerta, Arias, Rodriguez, Diaz, Suares.

Meanwhile, DR Congo have already exceeded expectations. The Leopards are participating in only their second World Cup and their first since 1974, when they competed as Zaire and suffered three defeats without scoring a goal.

Their road to the 2026 World Cup was remarkable. After navigating African qualifying, they eliminated Cameroon and Nigeria before securing their place at the tournament through an intercontinental playoff victory over Jamaica.

DR Congo produced one of the biggest surprises of the opening round by holding Portugal to a 1-1 draw. Despite facing a team led by Cristiano Ronaldo, the Africans defended brilliantly and earned the first World Cup point in their history. Yoane Wissa scored the equalizer just before halftime, becoming the first Congolese player ever to score at a World Cup.

Sebastien Desabre's side relied on a disciplined defensive structure and outstanding performances from Chancel Mbemba, Axel Tuanzebe, and goalkeeper Mpasi-Nzau. Portugal dominated possession and registered 7 shots, but DR Congo's organization and determination kept them in the game.

However, facing Colombia presents a different challenge. Unlike Portugal, Colombia attack with greater pace and directness, particularly through Luis Diaz and overlapping full-back Daniel Munoz.

• Possible DR Congo Lineup: Mpasi-Nzau, Masuaku, Kapuadi, Tuanzebe, Mbemba, Wan-Bissaka, Kayembe, Moutoussamy, Mukau, Bakambu, Wissa.

• DR Congo are playing in only their second World Cup and first since 1974.
• The Leopards earned their first-ever World Cup point after drawing 1-1 with Portugal.
• Colombia and DR Congo have never faced each other before.

DR Congo deserve enormous credit for their performance against Portugal, but repeating that level against another high-quality opponent will be difficult. Their defensive organization frustrated Portugal, yet Colombia possess more speed in wide areas and greater variety in attack. The South Americans know that a victory would almost guarantee qualification for the knockout stage, and they enter this match with momentum, confidence, and superior individual quality across the pitch. James Rodriguez continues to dictate play, while Luis Diaz looks capable of creating decisive moments whenever Colombia move forward. DR Congo should remain competitive and dangerous on the counterattack through Wissa and Bakambu, but over 90 minutes Colombia's attacking depth and technical quality are expected to make the difference. Recommended Bet: Colombia to Win.

• See also: Croatia on the brink of a slip-up: prediction for Panama vs Croatia - 24.06.2026

Colombia kicked off the tournament with a hard-fought but expected 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan. Néstor Lorenzo's side met stiff resistance from the debutants, even conceding a goal, but ultimately controlled the match and looked the better team throughout. This win is especially important given their schedule: with Portugal still to come, Colombia needs to solidify its position at the top of the group now.

Colombia has no significant squad issues, so don't expect major rotation. The main intrigue is in midfield, where Richard Ríos might get the nod over the more attacking Gustavo Puerta. Up front, everything will continue to revolve around Luis Díaz and James Rodríguez, while Jamilton Campaz, after scoring in the first match, can expect game time but likely won't displace the established stars from the starting lineup.

DR Congo earned a 1-1 draw against Portugal in their opener—a result that puts them firmly in the playoff hunt. The team conceded early but didn't fall apart, finding an equalizer through Yoane Wissa before halftime and then withstanding the favorite's pressure. For the Leopards, this point is more than just a draw—it's proof that their tactical setup can work even against top-tier opponents.

Sébastien Desabre will likely stick with a five-man defense and two strikers to hit on the counterattack. This approach paid off against Portugal, and with Colombia boasting plenty of attacking talent, caution is warranted. There could be tweaks in midfield: Noah Sadiki might come in for Edo Kayembe to inject fresh legs into the center of the park.

• Colombia: Vargas, Mojica, Lucumí, Sánchez, Muñoz, Ríos, Lerma, Díaz, Rodríguez, Arias, Suárez.
• DR Congo: Mpasi-Nzau, Mbemba, Kapuadi, Tuanzebe, Wan-Bissaka, Masuaku, Moutoussamy, Mukau, Sadiki, Bakambu, Wissa.

• In nine of their last ten matches, DR Congo has conceded no more than one goal.
• DR Congo has scored in regulation time in 11 of their last 12 World Cup and World Cup qualifier games.
• Colombia has not taken more than five corners in regulation in nine of their last ten World Cup matches.
• No more than three yellow cards have been shown in regulation in eight of Colombia's last ten World Cup games.

Colombia enters the match as favorites thanks to their superior attacking quality, the form of their key players, and a confident start. Luis Díaz is enjoying a stellar season, James Rodríguez remains vital to the national team, and a run of three straight wins with eight goals scored shows this side is clinical. But against DR Congo, they will find far less open space than they did versus Uzbekistan.

The Congolese have already shown their resilience, their ability to close down space and withstand pressure. In their last 14 matches, they've conceded more than once only a single time, and their five-man defense makes them a nightmare for any favorite. Colombia will dominate possession and look to break down DR Congo's deep block, but the Leopards have the tools to snatch a result and punish any rare mistake.

• See also: Argentina aims for an early playoff berth, Austria needs a game above their ceiling: prediction for Argentina vs Austria - 22.06.2026

After the opening round, the situation in the group looks rather compelling. Norway dispatched Iraq with authority (4-1) and sits atop the group thanks to a superior goal difference. The main man was Erling Haaland, who bagged a brace in his World Cup debut. Ståle Solbakken’s squad looked formidable going forward and proved they’re not just here to make up the numbers.Senegal, meanwhile, started their campaign with a 1-3 defeat to France. Still, the African side hardly collapsed—at times, they managed to trouble one of the tournament favorites. But the result leaves Senegal with no margin for error: another defeat could seriously jeopardize their hopes of progressing.For Norway, this is a golden opportunity to virtually secure a playoff spot even before their final group match against France. A win would mean six points and a comfortable position heading into the decisive fixtures. For Senegal, taking at least a point is imperative—otherwise, their situation becomes critical.

The main intrigue is whether Senegal’s defense can contain Haaland. The Norwegian striker is in red-hot form and has already shown he can create something out of nothing. But Senegal boasts plenty of top-tier talent as well, especially in midfield and on the flanks, where they’re traditionally strong both physically and in terms of pace.Judging by both teams’ styles, we could be in for an open, attacking game. Norway is playing with a clear offensive mindset, and after their opening loss, Senegal has no reason to sit back and wait. This could easily turn into one of the most entertaining matches of Group I’s second round.

On paper, Norway holds a slight edge. The team is riding high after a vibrant win over Iraq, and Haaland looks ready to extend his scoring streak. However, Senegal is far too experienced and talented to be written off after a single defeat.My prediction: both teams to score – yes.Probable lineups:

• Norway: Nyland, Ryerson, Ajer, Heggem, Wolfe, Ødegaard, Berge, Aursnes, Nusa, Sørloth, Haaland.
• Senegal: Mendy, Diouf, Niakhaté, Koulibaly, Diatta, Gueye, Gueye, Camara, Mané, Jackson, Mbaye

The opening round clearly split the group: Norway surged to the top after a spectacular rout, while the African side was left chasing after a tough battle against the group favorite. A win here would guarantee Norway an early ticket to the last 16, while Senegal desperately need points to keep their knockout hopes alive.

• See also: Can Iraq contain record-breaking Mbappé? World Cup France vs Iraq match prediction

Norway kicked off their historic World Cup campaign with a phenomenal performance, demolishing Iraq 4-1. Scandinavian superstar Erling Haaland instantly lived up to his top striker status, bagging a brace in his very first World Cup match. Playing alongside Alexander Sørloth and with Martin Ødegaard pulling the strings, this attack looks among the tournament’s most fearsome. Norway approach this clash at full strength—David Møller Wolfe and Julian Ryerson have fully recovered from minor knocks and are ready to lock down the flanks.

Ståle Solbakken won’t veer away from his aggressive approach. Norway will look to control the midfield through Martin Ødegaard and Sander Berge, making full use of Antonio Nusa’s blistering pace on the wings. The main objective: stretch Senegal’s defensive lines and give Haaland space to operate inside the box.

As for Senegal, they opened their campaign with a painful but respectable 1-3 defeat against France. Despite the result, Pape Thiaw’s men looked solid at times, grabbing a consolation goal through young Ibrahima Mbaye. Senegal boast vast international experience, and their leaders—Sadio Mané, Nicolas Jackson, and Kalidou Koulibaly—know that a second-round defeat would put them on the brink of disaster. Expect the African side to come out fired up, seeking their chances through physical battles and rapid vertical counters.

Pape Thiaw will likely look to reinforce the midfield with Idrissa Gueye to cut off supply lines to Ødegaard and stifle Norway’s creativity. Senegal will build a compact block, with Kalidou Koulibaly tasked with the monumental job of containing Haaland aerially. In attack, all hopes rest on the brilliance of Sadio Mané and the speed of Ismaïla Sarr.

Notably, these teams have never met at a World Cup before. Their only previous encounter was a friendly in Dakar back in March 2006, where Senegal edged a narrow 2-1 win.

• Norway: Nyland - Ryerson, Ajer, Heggem, Møller Wolfe - Ødegaard, Berge, Aursnes, Nusa - Sørloth, Haaland
• Senegal: Mendy - Diatta, Koulibaly, Niakhaté, Malick Diouf - Gueye I., Camara, Gueye P. - Mbaye, Mané, Jackson

Bookmakers favor the Scandinavians: Norway’s win probability is set at 45%, a draw sits around 25.4%, while a Senegal victory is priced at 29.6%.

Norway’s attack (Haaland, Sørloth, Ødegaard) is in phenomenal form and scoring freely, but their defense remains an ongoing concern—they’ve kept just one clean sheet in their last eight official matches. With Mané and Jackson, Senegal must push forward and take risks, promising us an open, end-to-end, and high-scoring contest. My prediction: Over 2.5 goals.

• See also: A favorite with vulnerabilities: prediction for France vs Iraq - 23.06.2026

Norway opened with a commanding 4-1 victory over Iraq, but the result was more convincing than the performance itself. Ståle Solbakken’s team was ruthlessly clinical, capitalizing on nearly every chance and Iraqi mistake, netting four goals from just five shots on target. Still, Iraq managed to breach the Norwegian defense several times, so conceding only once actually flattered the "Vikings."

Solbakken has little reason to tinker with his starting eleven, though a few positions are still up for debate. Antonio Nusa and Torbjørn Heggem didn’t have their best games, and Alexander Sørloth received low marks, but none look likely to be dropped from the opening whistle. The undisputed talisman remains Erling Haaland, who bagged a brace and directly influenced the outcome of the opening match.

Senegal kicked off their campaign against one of the tournament favorites and looked competitive in the first half. Papa Thiaw’s side not only held France at bay but also regularly threatened Mike Maignan’s goal, registering five shots before halftime. After the break, however, the "Lions of Teranga" faded physically, struggled to keep up with France’s pacey attackers, and ultimately fell 1-3.

The center of defense was especially concerning, with Kalidou Koulibaly unable to handle the pressure and involved in several shaky moments. With a duel against the powerful Haaland looming, this is a serious concern, making Mamadou Sarr a potential alternative worth considering. The midfield could also see changes: Idrissa Gueye had a poor second half and may be replaced by Pathé Ciss.

• Norway: Nyland, Møller, Heggem, Ajer, Ryerson, Nusa, Aursnes, Berge, Ødegaard, Haaland, Sørloth.
• Senegal: Mendy, Diatta, Koulibaly, Nyakate, Diouf, Camara, Ciss, Diarra, Sarr, Jackson, Mané.

• Norway beat Iraq 4-1 in their opening fixture.
• Senegal lost 1-3 to France, despite a strong first half.
• Three of Senegal’s last five matches and six of Norway’s last seven games have seen both teams score.
• No more than 10 corners have been awarded in regulation time in each of Senegal’s last 6 World Cup matches.
• No more than 3 yellow cards have been shown in regulation time in 6 of Senegal’s last 8 World Cup matches.

Norway’s attack remains their primary weapon. Haaland, Ødegaard, and Sørloth have the quality to punish Senegal for any gaps between the lines, while Koulibaly’s struggles and the aging core of Senegal’s defense make this a particularly tough matchup for the "Lions of Teranga." That said, Norway’s firepower looks less intimidating against stronger opposition than it does against lower-ranked sides.

Senegal can certainly improve upon their second-half showing against France, but their fitness and defensive decisions remain question marks. They’ll undoubtedly create chances, especially given Norway’s imperfect backline, but keeping Haaland quiet for 90 minutes will be a monumental challenge. The most likely scenario is a game with both sides scoring and a hard-fought European win.

• See also: An open group and a risky shootout: prediction for Netherlands vs Sweden - 20.06.2026

The French started the tournament exactly as expected from one of the main title contenders. In the opening match, the team confidently dispatched Senegal with a 3-1 victory. Didier Deschamps' squad controlled the tempo for most of the game, created plenty of dangerous chances, and showed they were in top form right from the opening days of the tournament.

Iraq, in contrast, had a rough start. A 1-4 defeat to Norway seriously complicated their tournament prospects. Now, any further slip could end their hopes of reaching the knockout stage, so against France, Iraq will have to play much more bravely than they might have planned before the championship began.For France, this match is a prime opportunity to virtually secure a place in the next round. Six points from two matches would allow them to approach the final group game against Norway with little pressure. That’s why it’s unlikely the favorites will show any signs of complacency.France’s main strength is their squad depth. Even if the stars aren’t having their best game, there are always players ready to change the course of the match with individual brilliance. Additionally, France are traditionally lethal on quick transitions from defense to attack, and the space around Iraq’s goal is sure to open up.Iraq, meanwhile, face a monumental challenge. After conceding four goals to Norway, their defense will be put through an even sterner test. To dream of a shock, the team will need to be nearly flawless: remain disciplined without the ball, make the most of rare counterattacks, and avoid mistakes near their own penalty area.The intrigue here is less about the result and more about how convincingly France can assert their superiority. If the favorites score early, the game could open up and become high-scoring. But if Iraq can hold out and keep the score level for a long time, the tension will only build.In any case, the French enter this match as overwhelming favorites. In terms of squad quality, experience, and overall level, the gulf between these teams is simply too wide to ignore.

Prediction: total goals over 3.5.Probable lineups:

• France: Maignan, Koundé, Saliba, Upamecano, Digne, Koné, Rabiot, Olise, Dembélé, Barcola, Mbappé.
• Iraq: Hassan, Doski, Hashem, Tahseen, Ali, Jasim, Iqbal, Al-Ammari, Bayesh, Al-Hamadi, Hussein.

The opening round drew a clear line between the teams: France confidently secured three points, while Iraq found themselves in a critical situation. A victory here would guarantee France an early spot in the playoffs, while any defeat for Iraq would all but turn the final group match into a mere formality.

• Read also: Will Algeria respond after the Argentina setback? Jordan vs Algeria prediction | June 23, 2026

In both official and friendly history, the men’s national teams of France and Iraq have never previously met. This clash in Philadelphia is a brand-new, blank page in their head-to-head history.

Didier Deschamps’ men kicked off their World Cup campaign with a confident and solid 3-1 victory over Senegal. The main hero of the match—and all of French football—was captain Kylian Mbappé. His brace against the Africans didn’t just seal the win, it also marked his 58th goal for the national team, officially surpassing Olivier Giroud atop the “Les Bleus” all-time scoring chart. France are at full strength, and Deschamps is planning a light squad rotation to keep his leaders fresh.

Deschamps won’t try anything fancy. France will take control of possession, apply high pressing, and tear up the flanks. Thanks to the sparkling form of Michael Olise (already with 10 goal contributions for France) and Bradley Barcola, the French can deliver the ball into the box in just a couple of passes. Kylian Mbappé will be given complete freedom to lead the line.

The “Lions of Mesopotamia” returned to the World Cup for the first time in 40 years, but it was a painful homecoming. In their opener, Australian coach Graham Arnold’s side suffered a heavy defeat to a powerful Norway led by Erling Haaland—1:4. Iraq’s only goal came from Aymen Hussein. Backed passionately by their fans in Philadelphia, Iraq’s defense is nonetheless buckling under pressure. The coaching staff must urgently shore up the defensive zones, because if they can’t cope with the French pace, the team risks setting an unwanted Asian record—five straight World Cup losses (including their 1986 campaign).

Graham Arnold is expected to build a compact defensive block, packing the central area as much as possible. Iraq will have to endure and hope to capitalize solely on rare counterattacks, relying on the lightning-fast Ali Jasim (if he’s fully recovered from a minor injury) and the powerful striker Aymen Hussein.

• France: Maignan - Koundé, Saliba, Upamecano, Digne - Koné, Rabiot, Dembélé - Olise, Barcola, Mbappé
• Iraq: Hassan - Ali, Tahseen, Hashem, Doski - Bayesh, Al-Ammari, Iqbal, Jasim - Hussein, Al-Hamadi

Bookmakers see no intrigue in the outcome, offering a microscopic price on a straight France victory. It’s pointless to play that in singles, so let’s look at goals for the favorite.

France’s stats are stunning—in 10 of their last 10 matches, the “over” has landed, and Les Bleus have scored at least 2 goals in 14 of their last 16 games. Considering Iraq’s defensive woes (4 conceded against Norway), we’re sure to see goals in Philadelphia. My prediction: Over 3 total goals.

• See also: Leader under pressure: prediction for Shamrock Rovers vs Derry City - 22.06.2026

France opened with a 3-1 win over Senegal, but the match was far less straightforward than the scoreline suggests. Didier Deschamps’ side struggled to find their usual rhythm in the first half, with Ousmane Dembélé often dropping deep just to get a touch of the ball. The breakthrough came after a tactical switch: Michael Olise moved closer to the center, and the "Blues" attack finally became much sharper.

Kylian Mbappé once again took center stage, reaffirming his status as the team’s talisman. Yet Olise’s contributions were crucial as well - his movement and passes between the lines helped unlock Senegal’s compact defense. Despite the attacking power, Mike Maignan looked the least convincing, though it’s unlikely Deschamps will make radical changes to his lineup.

Iraq fell 1-4 to Norway, but the "Lions of Mesopotamia" actually played better than the final score suggests. Graham Arnold’s team tried to stay compact, narrow the field, and apply man-to-man pressure in midfield. The plan was simple, but at times it worked; the collapse was largely due to individual mistakes.

In attack, Iraq showed signs of life as well. Ali Yaseen and Ibrahim Bayesh were effective down the flanks, Aymen Hussein got on the scoresheet, and Amir Al-Ammari was among the team’s most creative players. Against France, Iraq will almost certainly have to defend deep again, but the space left behind France’s aggressive full-backs could open up opportunities for counterattacks.

• France: Maignan, Hernandez, Saliba, Upamecano, Koundé, Tchouaméni, Rabiot, Barcola, Olise, Dembélé, Mbappé.
• Iraq: Gassan Hakim, Ali, Younis, Tahsin, Hashim, Doski, Bayesh, Ismail, Al-Ammari, Yaseen, Hussein.

• France beat Senegal 3-1 in their opening match.
• Iraq started the tournament with a 1-4 loss to Norway.
• In four of France’s last six official matches and in five of Iraq’s last eight, both teams have scored.

France are clearly superior in squad depth and attacking options. Even if they start slowly again, Deschamps has plenty of tactical tools to adjust: Olise can operate between the lines, Dembélé can stretch the defense, and Mbappé can punish any open space. For Iraq, this is as tough as it gets.

But it would be unwise to totally rule out a goal from the underdog. France have consistently conceded: since last September, they have kept just two clean sheets in ten matches, and the attacking runs of Theo Hernandez and Jules Koundé often leave space for opponents to exploit. Iraq might take advantage of one of these moments, but holding back the French attack for the full 90 minutes is a tall order.

• See also: Shelbourne finds their stride while Bohemians risk falling out of the European race: prediction for Shelbourne vs Bohemians - 22.06.2026

Shamrock Rovers remain the benchmark for every other team in the league. Following their championship-winning 2025 campaign, Stephen Bradley’s side are once again leading the table with 14 rounds to go. In their most recent outing, they secured a confident 2-0 win over Waterford, a crucial response after their 1-2 loss to Shelbourne the previous week, helping them keep a cushion over their closest pursuers.

Currently, Rovers are five points ahead of St Patrick’s Athletic, although they have played one game more. Their home form has been particularly impressive: this season, they’ve lost just once at Tallaght Stadium, racking up eight wins and a single draw. Another cornerstone of their leadership is their defense - Shamrock has already posted nine clean sheets, the best record in the division.

Derry City enter this fixture in noticeably worse shape. Under Tiernan Lynch, the Candystripes have won only once in their last nine matches. Even their emphatic 4-1 triumph over Bohemians on June 12 failed to spark a real turnaround. In the very next round, Derry slumped to a 1-2 defeat at Galway United, marking their second loss in three games.

This poor run has dropped Derry to sixth place with 25 points. They now trail the European qualification spots by ten points, and their gap over Sligo Rovers - the team currently in the relegation playoff zone - is down to just six points. The fixture list doesn’t help either: Derry have played at least one more match than every team below them, and have lost three of their last four away games.

• Shamrock Rovers have won eight of their ten home league matches this season.
• Derry City have managed just one win in their last nine outings.
• Shamrock Rovers have kept nine clean sheets in the league - the best in the division.

Shamrock Rovers come into this match as clear favorites. Even with some absences in attack, Bradley’s squad has enough structure, experience, and home confidence to control the game. The lack of attacking options may affect their flexibility up front, but the trio of Watts, McGovern, and Burke can still apply serious pressure on Derry’s defense.

The visitors are facing too many red flags at once: a poor run of form, vulnerability away from home, disappointing results, and mounting pressure in the standings. A draw would be a good result for Derry, but against a leader who almost never drops points at home, holding out will be extremely difficult. Given the current balance of power, the most logical outcome looks like a Shamrock Rovers win with goals from both sides.

• See also: Argentina aims for an early playoff berth, Austria needs a game above their ceiling: prediction for Argentina vs Austria - 22.06.2026

Back in late April, Shelbourne’s situation looked precarious. After a 3-4 defeat to Drogheda United, Joey O’Brien’s side sat seventh, just two points clear of the relegation playoff zone, and that loss marked their fourth in a row.

But a 2-1 victory over Dundalk on May 1 marked a turning point. Since then, Shelbourne have gone nine games unbeaten, surged to fifth in the standings, and now sit only five points off the European spots.

Key to this run were wins over strong opponents: a 1-0 triumph against St Patrick’s Athletic and a 2-1 victory over league leaders Shamrock Rovers. However, their latest outing ended in a 2-2 draw against Drogheda, and Shelbourne now have three draws in their last four matches - so it’s crucial for the hosts to maintain their momentum and not let progress stall.

Bohemians approach this clash with growing concerns. Alan Reynolds’ men recently fell 1-2 to Dundalk in a direct battle for the upper table, dropping them to fourth place.

That defeat was Bohemians’ third in their last four games. They now trail Dundalk by a single point and St Patrick’s Athletic by four, having played one more match than both rivals - a situation that adds to the pressure.

There is, however, a silver lining for the visitors: their away form. Bohemians have won three of their last four on the road, netting 11 goals in those fixtures. Still, it’s been a full month since they last beat a team positioned above the relegation battle.

• Shelbourne are unbeaten in their last nine matches.
• Bohemians have lost three of their last four games.
• Shelbourne have drawn three of their last four fixtures.

Shelbourne look like the steadier side at the moment. The hosts have tightened up, learned how to take points from top-half rivals, and on the back of a nine-match unbeaten streak, will hardly be willing to cede the initiative at home.

Bohemians, on the other hand, are struggling, but it would be a mistake to write them off. They remain a threat away from home, know how to find the net, and will be highly motivated - another defeat could seriously dent their European ambitions. Still, with Shelbourne’s penchant for draws and Bohemians’ inconsistency, a cautious, balanced encounter is on the cards.

• See also: New Zealand dreams of a historic victory, Egypt prepares its surge: prediction for New Zealand vs Egypt - 22.06.2026

Argentina began their title defense with composure, immediately showing no intention of repeating the opening troubles of the 2022 World Cup. A 3-0 victory over Algeria was convincing, and Lionel Messi was once again given maximum freedom between the lines, making the most of every opportunity.

Lionel Scaloni’s squad comes into the Austria match on an eight-game winning streak, with a combined goal difference of 24:1. In this form, topping Group J already looks like a very realistic goal for Argentina, although the coaching staff still has things to refine.

The 4-4-2 variation worked well, with Rodrigo De Paul and Thiago Almada drifting centrally from the flanks, overloading the middle and opening up space for Messi. The only noticeable drawback was Lautaro Martínez’s lackluster performance, which could lead to Julián Álvarez joining Leo up front against Austria.

Austria opened with a win over Jordan, but the quality of play left mixed impressions. Aside from Romano Schmid’s brilliant goal, Ralf Rangnick’s team never looked fully in control, with their other two goals coming from an own goal and a penalty.

Jordan had chances to snatch a result, which is a worrying sign ahead of the Argentina clash. Austria lacked creativity, and an overemphasis on gegenpressing sometimes restricted players who need more freedom on the ball.

After some adjustments, the game became livelier: Konrad Laimer returned to a more familiar role, and Marco Arnautović’s introduction for Sasa Kalajdžić added experience and clarity to the attack. With Christoph Baumgartner unavailable, the coaching staff may give more minutes to Carney Chukwuemeka, Paul Wanner, or Michael Gregoritsch, but against Argentina, that may not be enough.

• Argentina: Martínez, Medina, Martínez, Romero, Molina, Mac Allister, De Paul, Simeone, Fernández, Messi, Álvarez.
• Austria: Laimer, Lienhart, Alaba, Mwene, Seiwald, Schlager, Schmid, Chukwuemeka, Sabitzer, Arnautović.

• Argentina have won their last eight matches with a combined score of 24:1.
• In nine of Argentina’s last ten matches, and five of Austria’s last eight, both teams did not score.
• Under 2.5 goals were scored in five of Argentina’s last eight official matches and in eight of Austria’s last thirteen official games.

Rangnick’s Austria can press aggressively and make life uncomfortable for their opponents, but that style might actually suit Argentina. The Albiceleste have enough players capable of making quick decisions under pressure, advancing the ball through the middle, and exploiting spaces behind the lines.

Argentina currently look like a more mature, flexible, and versatile side. Messi remains the main creative force, but the attacking threat doesn’t stop with him: Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, Julián Álvarez, and options off the bench give Scaloni several ways to control the game. Against an Austria side lacking pace at the back and consistent creativity up front, that should be enough for a confident victory.

• Read also: Can van Dijk stop Isak and Gyökeres? Preview and prediction for Netherlands vs Sweden

In the opening match, Argentina confidently dispatched Algeria 3-0. The star of the night was Lionel Messi, who bagged a hat-trick and once again proved that, even at 39, he's a player capable of deciding games almost single-handedly. For fans, it was another chance to savor the legend in action; for opponents, a clear warning that Argentina hasn't come just to defend their title—they're here to fight for the trophy again.Austria also started their World Cup campaign with a win, defeating Jordan 3-1. The team looked organized, worked hard off the ball, and made the most of their chances. However, the level of opposition in the second round will be a completely different story.From a tournament perspective, this fixture carries huge weight. The winner will all but guarantee a spot in the knockout stage before the final group game. That's especially true for Argentina, who will face Jordan next and could wrap up qualification ahead of schedule with another victory.Austria will surely try to play as compact as possible and prevent Argentina from taking quick control of the game. The problem is, this Argentina side is dangerous not only because of Messi. They have plenty of players capable of creating chances out of nothing, and the team is traditionally very comfortable in possession-based attacks.It will be intriguing to see how high Austria is willing to push up. If the Europeans sit deep around their own box, Argentina will enjoy their usual possession advantage. But if Austria tries to go toe-to-toe in attack, this could turn into one of the most entertaining matches of the second group stage round.After his hat-trick against Algeria, all eyes are once again on Messi. Fans are expecting the show to continue, while opponents search for ways to stop a man who has been rewriting football history for years.Prediction: Argentina win.Probable lineups:

• Argentina: Martínez, Molina, Romero, Martínez, Medina, De Paul, Mac Allister, Fernández, González, Messi, Álvarez.
• Austria: Schlager, Alaba, Danso, Lienhart, Mwene, Schlager, Seiwald, Laimer, Sabitzer, Arnautović, Schmid.

• See also: New Zealand vs Egypt prediction and betting tips 22 June 2026

Argentina, under the guidance of Lionel Scaloni, showed exactly why they arrived in the USA as defending champions and tournament favorites. In their opener, La Albiceleste ruthlessly dismantled a sturdy Algeria side 3-0, with the ageless Lionel Messi stealing the show by netting a phenomenal hat-trick at his sixth World Cup. Scaloni has struck the perfect tactical balance, but faces a personnel headache ahead of matchday two—right-back Gonzalo Montiel has suffered a thigh muscle injury and is ruled out. Fortunately, Argentina's squad depth should cover this absence seamlessly, and the team plans to dominate possession from the outset, relying on Enzo Fernandez’s genius line-breaking passes and the explosive movement of their front three in the final third.

Austria, led by Ralf Rangnick, have underlined their reputation as one of the most dangerous and organized teams in European football, beating Jordan 3-1 in their opening fixture. The Austrians took a while to hit their stride, but ultimately wore down their opponents with flawless fitness and aerial supremacy. Rangnick knows that playing open attacking football against the reigning world champions would be suicidal, so expect Austria to radically adjust their setup in Texas. Das Team will deploy a compact, aggressive mid-block with intense man-marking in midfield, where Marcel Sabitzer and Konrad Laimer will do everything possible to deny Messi space and smother Argentina’s build-up play at its source.

Tactically, the contest in Dallas will revolve around Argentina’s territorial dominance and Austria’s relentless pressing. The South Americans will look to control the ball, methodically prying open Austrian defensive lines with quick short passing and the individual dribbling of their wingers. Austria will coolly accept the underdog role, focusing on defensive solidity against crosses and lightning-fast vertical counters immediately after turnovers. Given Lionel Messi’s red-hot form, La Albiceleste’s wealth of big-match experience, and their clear technical superiority, Scaloni’s men should be able to unlock Austria’s systematic defense in the second half and earn a hard-fought but deserved victory.

Argentina: E Martinez – Molina, Romero, Li Martinez, Medina – De Paul, Mac Allister, Fernandez, Almada – Messi, La MartinezAustria: A Schlager – Laimer, Lienhart, Alaba, Mwene – Seiwald, X Schlager – Schmid, Chukwuemeka, Sabitzer – Kalajdzic

I expect both teams to deliver an entertaining, attacking spectacle—there should be plenty of end-to-end action and ample chances for goals. My prediction: both teams to score – YES at 2