Spain lead France in World Cup power rankings with 30 days to go
Spain remain the leading contenders to win the 2026 World Cup ahead of France as the 30-day countdown to the tournament gets underway.
The global showpiece kicks off on 11 June when Mexico host South Africa in Mexico City.
Yamal injury a concern for La Roja
Despite currently sitting second in the world rankings, the European nation are widely tipped to lift the trophy this summer.
However, their preparations have been clouded by a significant hamstring injury sustained by teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
The Barcelona winger is expected to recover in time to make the squad, but any further setbacks could severely impact their campaign.
They will navigate a relatively gentle Group H, facing Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay.
Deschamps begins his final chapter
Second-favourites France are preparing for their final tournament under long-serving manager Didier Deschamps.
Having guided Les Bleus to global glory in 2018, the veteran coach is aiming for one last triumph before his expected departure.
His side face a demanding Group I schedule that includes challenging fixtures against Senegal, Iraq and Norway.
Attacking dilemmas for Les Bleus
Star forward Kylian Mbappe leads the French frontline, but the Real Madrid attacker has endured a disruptive build-up plagued by minor injuries and club-level squabbles.
Deschamps must also cope without Hugo Ekitike after the Liverpool striker suffered a serious injury earlier this year.
The manager’s primary tactical challenge will be integrating attacking midfielder Michael Olise to replicate his dominant domestic form for Bayern Munich.