Qatar

Qatar arrive at the 2026 World Cup as one of the modern era's most ambitious footballing projects. After hosting the tournament and rising to prominence as Asian champions in recent years, the Maroons carry the confidence of a side that has tasted continental silverware and built a generation of players around a distinctive, technical style. Their World Cup story is still young, which makes every appearance a chance to write new chapters rather than defend old ones.

This campaign is about translating regional dominance onto the global stage. Qatar's blend of patient possession, sharp counter-attacks and a tightly drilled defensive shape gives them a clear identity, and a squad shaped by years of investment in youth development means there is genuine cohesion on the pitch. The challenge is stepping up against opponents from Europe and the Americas who bring physicality and tournament pedigree of their own.

Group B is a fascinating crossroads of styles. Switzerland offer disciplined, well-organised European football; Bosnia and Herzegovina bring grit, ambition and attacking flair; and Canada arrive as energetic co-hosts riding a wave of momentum from a rising golden generation. For Qatar, that variety means three completely different tactical puzzles in the space of eleven days, with no easy nights and plenty to play for.

Under the new 48-team format, the math is more forgiving but the pressure no less real. The top two teams in each group advance to the Round of 32, and the eight best third-placed sides also progress, so even a point or two from these matches could be the difference between an early flight home and a place in the knockouts. Every goal, every clean sheet and every result in Group B carries weight, and Qatar will know that a strong start against Switzerland could set the tone for the whole campaign.