Ranking the chances of Arab nations to progress from World Cup group stages

LONDON: An unprecedented eight teams from the Arab region will participate at the 2026 World Cup.

The expanded 48-nation tournament means that there are 32 places available in the knockout stages. Arab News tries to predict the unpredictable and rank their chances to get out of their groups.

Morocco

Group C opponents: Brazil, Scotland, Haiti

An opening game with Brazil looks daunting but better to face the South Americans early for a team that now expects to go deep.

Semifinalists in 2022, and controversial champions of Africa earlier this year, the Atlas Lions are full of stars including Achraf Hakimi of Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz.

This is a team that knows tournament play, can be hard to beat and grind out results if needed. And whatever happens against the five-time champions in the opener, will surely get enough points from Haiti and Scotland to extend their stay in North America.

Chances: 8 out 10

Egypt

Group G opponents: Belgium, New Zealand, Iran

The focus on Mohamed Salah and what is likely to be the soon-to-be-ex-Liverpool star’s last World Cup may actually take some pressure off the rest of the Pharaohs as they seek a first-ever knockout spot.

Salah will be desperate to end a difficult season on a high. Omar Marmoush also has a point to prove to Manchester City. Such attacking potency should make the difference in what looks to be an open group.

Belgium are not the force of a few years ago, Iran have other issues to deal with, and New Zealand will be organized but limited.

Chances: 6 out of 10

Algeria

Group J opponents: Argentina, Austria, Jordan

Recent form has been pretty good for the Fennecs and coach Vladimir Petkovic will be looking forward to the challenge.

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