Alexi Lalas' World Cup Power Rankings: Argentina Surges After Messi's Hat Trick

Back by popular demand! You know them, you love them: My 2026 FIFA World Cup Power Rankings, featuring the top 10 in this tournament as of Wednesday.

And I've got a new No. 1.

As a reminder: These are my power rankings. You want some power rankings? Go get your own! These are mine, and they're a work in progress throughout the tournament.

I might get up and say, "Wow, this team is really turning me on!" Or, I might get up and say, "This team is not turning me on."

Netherlands, Croatia, Norway, Mexico and Brazil aren't in my top 10, but things can change. But keep in mind, just as you go up, you can come down as the tournament goes along. 

Let's dive into it:

10.

Photo by Wu Xiaoling/Xinhua via Getty Images)

Odds to win the World Cup: +5500 (15th)
Key player: Takefusa Kubo (Real Sociedad)

Japan impressed with a 2-2 draw against Netherlands on Sunday in the teams' Group F opener, and the Samurai Blue hope to carry their momentum into their Tunisia match. But it could be challenging if Kubo's status is questionable after he was injured against the Dutch.

Group F opponents: Netherlands (2-2 D), Tunisia (June 20), Sweden (June 25)

9.

(Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

Odds to win the World Cup: +4000 (12th)
Key player: Winger Christian Pulisic (AC Milan)

Nothing beats home cooking, but the United States might need a double helping of it this summer if it wants to contend — so far, so good.

Group D opponents: Paraguay (4-1 W), Australia (June 19), Türkiye (June 25)

8.

(Photo by SANDY HUFFAKER / AFP via Getty Images)

Odds to win the World Cup: +5500 (13th)
Key player: Midfielder James Rodríguez (No club)

I see the heat and environment in the United States favoring South American teams this summer. Colombia