What if...Survivor: David vs Goliath

The Decision

This season is a goldmine. The premerge is incredible, and the postmerge is incredible. Of course, I'm focusing on the postmerge, but rewatching parts of this season recently reminded me just how excellent this season was, especially as Survivor 51 seems to become better and better every week. So, the question is what small change should be made at which round in the DvG postmerge? Dan doesn't play his idol on Angelina at F12? Alec wins the F10 immunity? Christian goes home at F8 instead of Gabby after his David allies don't tip him off? Carl doesn't get flipped on at F9? No, I think the most consequential and intriguing change is if the idol nullifier isn't introduced on this season, but instead during Island of the Idols a year later. So, what if...Dan's idol isn't nullified at the Final 11 of Survivor: David vs Goliath?

The Outcome

At the final eleven, Dan successfully plays his idol after his ally's vote is stolen, prompting Christian to play his out of his own pocket to keep himself safe.

Carl --> Dan

Davie --> Dan

Nick --> Dan

Nick --> Dan

Christian --> Dan

Gabby --> Dan

Dan --> Christian

Mike --> Christian

Angelina --> Christian

Alec --> Angelina

Kara --> Angelina

In a 2-0-0 vote, Angelina is taken out by two of her own goliaths. Alec battles for over five hours with Dan and Christian, with the David outlasting both goliaths for immunity. With Alec and Dan both likely targets, the goliaths try to make a plan with the outside davids to save one of their own:

Carl --> Alec

Davie --> Alec

Nick --> Dan

Dan --> Alec

Alec --> Dan

Gabby --> Dan

Christian --> Dan

Kara --> Dan

Mike --> Dan

Alison --> Dan

And despite his best efforts, Dan is sent home in a 7-3 vote as the two physical goliath threats realize they can only vote for each other. With the vote looking as though it will be between Carl and Alec, Davie swoops in and wins immunity with a close tribal council to come:

Carl --> Alec

Alec --> Carl

Davie --> Alec

Kara --> Carl

Nick --> Alec

Alison --> Carl

Christian --> Carl

Gabby --> Carl

Mike --> Carl

Just like in real life, Christian and Gabby switch sides to blindside Carl and save a goliath, this time keeping Alec in the game. Nick is still significantly betrayed by Christian and this time Mike, and Davie distrusts him due to accurately suspecting Nick holds an idol. The majority appears to be a modified Strike Force of Christian, Gabby, Mike, Kara, Alison, and Alec, but in an eight person tribe, an alliance of six is dangerous. Left out of the loved ones reward, Gabby, Alison, Christian, and Mike get closer before Kara wins immunity to set up a fascinating final eight tribal, with everyone trying to set up their endgame:

Christian --> Davie

Davie --> Christian

Alec --> Davie

Nick --> Christian

Mike --> Christian

Kara --> Christian

Alison --> Christian

Gabby --> Christian

Gabby, as in the show itself, turns on Christian at the final eight, this time cementing her second consecutive big move on her resume. Alec appears to be the outsider, but with distrust between the davids, things are not as simple as they seem. Davie finds an idol that is only good for the next tribal council but can be extended with a risk, which he doesn't choose to take. Alec wins immunity, ruining Gabby and Alison's plans, and besides Gabby being a strong strategic threat, the vote appears to be wide open:

Gabby --> Davie

Alison --> Davie

Davie --> Gabby

Kara --> Gabby

Alec --> Gabby

Mike --> Gabby

Nick --> Gabby

With everyone on board but the Gabby-Alison alliance, Gabby goes home in a 5-0 vote as Davie uses his idol on himself. Alison finds a clue to an idol, and in a desperate move, tells Alec, but neither goes on reward so the idol is lost. With Nick, Davie, and Mike bonding on reward, Kara, Alec, and Alison must come together to create a 3-3 tie to save Alec and break up a final three deal:

Alec --> Davie

Davie --> Alison

Alison --> Davie

Nick --> Alison

Mike --> Alison

Kara --> Alison

Not willing to risk her game by going to rocks, Kara flips on the condition Alison goes home instead of Alec, leaving the Nick-David-Mike contigent with control over the game entering finale night. Nick wins immunity, meaning his idol may land on an ally, and the vote appears to be 4-1. However, as in the real season, Mike worries about sitting next to Davie instead of Alec, and the decision to flip may come down to him as the swing vote:

Alec --> Davie

Kara --> Davie

Mike --> Davie

Nick --> Alec

Davie --> Alec

As Mike indeed does flip, Nick uses his idol on his number one ally, neglecting the majority number of votes and knocking out Alec 2-0. At the final four, Nick appears to be the biggest jury threat, but Kara, Mike, and Davie are all still in contention. However, Nick wins yet another immunity and his most clutch of the season. He has to decide who his threats must go into fire and who to bring to the final tribal council:

Kara --> Saved

And we have fire. Nick sends Davie and Mike into fire. Neither is particularly good at fire, but Davie gets a flame early and easily. The flame, however, blows away, and Mike builds a fire high and bright enough to send himself into the final three in the same way as in the real season of the show.

Fire --> Mike

And the final three is remarkably similar to the season itself, however replacing one goliath goat with a much more of a contender to join Mike and Nick. Nick is the jury favorite with three straight immunities, a secret idol, but the jury is bitter, particularly Gabby, Christian, and Davie. Mike and Kara have both been in the jury for most of the postmerge, but neither ran the game.

Alec --> Kara

Christian --> Nick

Gabby --> Mike

Elizabeth --> Nick

John --> Mike

Carl --> Nick

Angelina --> Mike

Davie --> Nick

The winner of Survivor: David vs Goliath:

Dan --> Nick

Alison --> Nick

What if...Survivor: Cambodia - Second Chance

The Decision

Well, the ancient era of Survivor was too boring, so let's talk about a season that actually might make some difference when we change one small detail. This is an extremely difficult decision in terms of what move or moment to change. As always, I want to focus on something post-merge. Wentworth...does not count? No...too easy. Spencer turning on Fishbach? Nope. THE FINAL 6??? Nope. I think the most interesting thing to investigate is what happens if the witches' coven isn't reduced to two members at the final ten, and Jeremy does NOT do what he needs to do to save his alliance. So, what if...Jeremy didn't know about the Fishbach blindside?

The Outcome

At the final ten, the votes stay the same, but Fishbach's votes do count, meaning Ciera doesn't go home and the remains of the witches' coven stays intact:

Wentworth --> Kimmi

Ciera --> Kimmi

Fishbach --> Ciera

Abi --> Fishbach

Jeremy --> Ciera

Spencer --> Fishbach

Tasha --> Fishbach

Kimmi --> Ciera

Keith --> Fishbach

Joe --> Fishbach

In a strange 5-3-2 vote, Fishbach does home as the witches' coven band together with Joe, Keith, Spencer, and Tasha. Jeremy feels betrayed by Spencer, and doesn't fall for Spencer's "voting block" excuse a second time. Spencer wins immunity and without Fishbach's steal-a-vote on their side, Jeremy, Tasha, and Kimmi have to scramble against the six-person majority:

Wentworth --> Jeremy

Ciera --> Jeremy

Abi --> Kimmi

Jeremy --> Ciera

Spencer --> Kimmi

Tasha --> Ciera

Kimmi --> Ciera

Keith --> Jeremy

Joe --> Kimmi

Jeremy correctly susses out the split vote situation, but the majority six is too strong for Jeremy's idol as the castaways vote again:

Wentworth --> Kimmi

Abi --> Kimmi

Jeremy --> Ciera

Spencer --> Kimmi

Tasha --> Ciera

Keith --> Kimmi

Joe --> Kimmi

And in a 5-2 revote, Kimmi goes home, leaving Jeremy and Tasha alone against a majority of six. Wentowrth wins reward and brings Keith, Abi, Joe, and Ciera with her to solidify bonds. However, at camp, Jeremy brings Spencer back in and they form a final three deal. At the immunity challenge, Wentworth and Keith win immunity and the majority must decide who to target:

Wentworth --> Joe

Ciera --> Joe

Abi --> Joe

Jeremy --> Joe

Spencer --> Joe

Tasha --> Joe

Keith --> Tasha

Joe --> Abi

And in a 6-1-1 vote Joe leaves on his first opportunity after passing out in the challenge as the majority and minority come together to form a voting block, despite the threat of an all-girls alliance. Keith wins reward and brings Ciera, Wentworth, and Abi while Tasha, Jeremy, and Spencer remain at camp. Spencer wins immunity and Keith must decide as the swing vote which alliance will stay intact:

Wentworth --> Tasha

Ciera --> Tasha

Abi --> Tasha

Jeremy --> Ciera

Spencer --> Ciera

Tasha --> Ciera

Keith --> Tasha

Meaning after a fight at camp over the previous night's vote, Tasha goes home in a 4-3 vote. Keith is presented with a final three deal due to the threat of the three women, and after Ciera wins immunity, chaos ensues at the final six:

Wentworth --> Jeremy

Ciera --> Jeremy

Abi --> Jeremy

Jeremy --> Abi

Spencer --> Abi

Keith --> Abi

And on the revote:

Wentworth --> Jeremy

Abi --> Jeremy

Spencer --> Ciera

Keith --> Jeremy

Not wanting to go home on rocks, Keith flips back to his original alliance, sending Jeremy home on a 3-1 revote. On finale night, Keith wins final five immunity. After Abi exploded at him earlier in the day, Keith wants to target her, but Wentworth and Ciera both know Spencer and each other are far bigger threats:

Wentworth --> Ciera

Ciera --> Wentworth

Abi --> Spencer

Spencer --> Wentworth

Keith --> Abi

Despite being friendlier with Wentworth than Ciera, Spencer attempts to vote out Wentworth but she uses her idol as it expires at the final five, leaving us with a 1-1 vote and a historic vote between Wentworth and Kieth:

Wentworth --> Ciera

Keith --> Abi

And we have reached a Survivor situation that has never happened before and is not described in the rulebook. This is now the first time that one player is safe due to immunity, one player is safe due to an idol, and three players are safe because they are in a deadlocked vote. The most likely solution in my opinion that production would choose is that everyone now votes again with Wentworth and Keith safe. With Ciera voting for the biggest threat eligible and her only non-ally Spencer, Keith again voting for Abi, Wentworth continuing to try to blindside Ciera, and Abi sticking with the witches' coven, Spencer must cast the deciding vote:

Wentworth --> Ciera

Ciera --> Spencer

Abi --> Spencer

Spencer --> Ciera

Keith --> Abi

Spencer switches his vote to Ciera recognizing she's a big jury threat, and they revote with only two eligible targets and three eligible voters in a record fourth round of voting in one round of gameplay, with Keith having to choose between alliance members:

Wentworth --> Ciera

Abi --> Spencer

Keith --> Ciera

Despite Spencer not being in his main alliance, Keith sticks with Wentworth to the final four, taking out his ally Ciera in a 2-1 vote on the fourth round of voting, leaving Keith and Wentworth in the middle of Abi and Spencer. Spencer wins immunity at the most opportune time, avenging his real-world self and sending himself to final three in Simmotion. Knowing Keith and Wentworth are sticking together, Spencer has to choose between taking out his adversary Abi or risking a vote with Abi to send one of Keith or Wentworth into fire:

Wentworth --> Abi

Abi --> Keith

Spencer --> Keith

Keith --> Abi

In this situation, Spencer knows that going to final tribal with Keith and Wentworth is a nightmare scenario with three beloved powerhouses facing the jury. He has to vote with Abi, who is stuck on voting Keith, meaning he can't force Wentworth into fire, but barring a flip on the revote we have fire in Cambodia:

Wentworth --> Abi

Spencer --> Keith

And we have fire. Abi and Keith face off in fire for a spot at final tribal council and a shot at a million dollars. If Abi can win, she needs a monumental performance to convince the jury that she deserves the million, and if Keith can win, he has a great shot but likely must split votes with Wentworth and Spencer and have reasons for erratic moves. So, without further ado, the woman who can't win a challenge and cracks under pressure against a multi-decade firefighter:

Fire --> Keith

And against nobody's bet, Keith pulls it out in under four minutes to set what would have then been the fastest firemaking challenge ever, sending Abi to the jury and meaning Keith, Wentworth, and Spencer will plead their case to the jury on day 39. Facing the largest jury to date in Survivor history, the vote is not as simple as it was in real life. Wentworth played the striking strategic game, with two of the most iconic idol plays in Survivor history this season to force out Savage and Ciera, timed her targets correctly, was the main strategic force in the witches' coven, and formed relationships that got her to the final three. Spencer won four individual immunities, served as a strong swing vote that allowed him to navigate through a turbulent post-merge, and shifted loyalties when necessary. Keith has no enemies on the jury, won big challenges including fire-making at the final four, and built durable relationships. It's a big decision for the jury, and the votes are in:

Tasha --> Spencer

Ciera --> Wentworth

Joe --> Keith

Abi --> Wentworth

Jeremy --> Spencer

Wigglesworth --> Keith

Kass --> Wentworth

Fishbach --> Wentworth

The Winner of Survivor: Second Chance:

Kimmi --> Wentworth

Savage --> Wentworth

And so the woman I believed might end up winning this season with Ciera surviving does so, and largely due to her second idol. Spencer's strategic and emotional distance simply runs too deep, and despite not facing Jeremy, he struggles to gain votes despite a great game in the middle. Keith's game is simply viewed as too eratic and not strategic for a season meant to crown a strong strategic winner. And Wentworth, now holding arguably the two most iconic idol plays in Survivor history, a massive blindside of her number one ally, and clutch immunity and reward wins, is a deserving winner who was just one challenge away from potentially winning a million dollars in real life.

The Ultimate Preview: All you need to know about all 48 teams before the World Cup

IT'S HERE!!! Welcome to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Forty-eight of the world's greatest footballing nations from six continents have arrived in the United States, Mexico, and Canada to play for the next month and a half to claim the elusive World Cup trophy.

This is already guaranteed to be a historic and memorable World Cup, and there will certainly be more moments that add to the excitement as the tournament plays out. This is Messi and Ronaldo's last dance. This is the first World Cup with forty-eight teams. This is the first World Cup featuring Jordan, Uzbekistan, Cape Verde, or Curaçao, who will break the record for the least populated nation to play a World Cup match when they step on the pitch for their opener on June 14. This is the first World Cup to be hosted by three nations. The Estadio Azteca in Mexico will not only become the first stadium in history to host matches in three World Cups but the first to host three opening matches.

There is so much to cover from the last four years, from the moment Gonzalo Montiel buried the winning penalty in the 2022 World Cup through the friendlies that are still to be played in preparation for this year's tournament. We'll go through group-by-group and match-by-match through the entire World Cup, predicting the results along the way as we ready for the world's biggest sporting competition to kick off on June 11.

GROUP A

This group promises to be one of the most fascinating at this year's World Cup. Mexico have home-field advantage for all three matches in the Group Stage, but the national team is in turmoil with a new manager being appointed just a month ago. Czechia qualified through the UEFA playoffs but failed to win either playoff game and also recently got a new manager. South Korea starred in Asian World Cup qualifiers but have had some recent disastrous results. South Africa has a chance to shock the world but there are concerns over the talent of a team made of almost entirely domestic league players.

Mexico 1, South Africa 1 - Well, after 16 years, there is still nothing to decide these two teams in yet another World Cup opener. Mamelodi Sundowns played with fire and attacking prowess at the Club World Cup a year ago, and if that's what the South African League has overall, South Africa has a chance at this World Cup and they prove it here.

Czechia 0, South Korea 0 - This is a bold pick from me, not by the result, but on the score. South Korea may very well leak goals this tournament and have a much better attack, and the same is true about Czechia demonstrated by their World Cup qualifying. But I think they will somehow cancel each other out. Double-draws on Day 1.

Czechia 2, South Africa 1 - Czechia just sneak out a huge win over South Africa to move to second in the group.

Mexico 2, South Korea 0 - Despite the attacking prowess, South Korea are still goalless after two matches, and the homefield advantage along with the talent advantage carry Mexico to the top of the group after two matchdays.

South Africa 1, South Korea 1 - Both teams very likely needed a win, but it could not come for either side. Almost certainly an end for both teams' tournaments.

Mexico 3, Czechia 1 - Mexico get the job done at home to secure the top of the group, and Czechia will be dissapointed but ultimately satisfied with a second-place finish and a fixture against the runners-up of Group B.

Final Table:

1. Mexico 7 (+4)

2. Czechia 4 (-1)

3. South Africa 2 (-1)

4. South Korea 2 (-2)

GROUP B

This Group has a much more competitive ceiling and a much lower floor in level. Qatar is once again slated to be one of the worst teams at this year's World Cup, though they did qualify through Asia instead of as hosts; however, they have been terrible in form with no wins in their last five games and with only one of those clashes being against a World Cup side (0-3 to Tunisia). Canada has yet to win a World Cup game in their history but this is definitely the opportunity; led by Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David, Canada will defend spectacularly in this group and need to figure out a way to score goals. Bosnia and Herzegovina was the latest team to knock Italy out of World Cup qualification, but recent friendly draws against weaker sides are not encouraging. Lastly are the group favorites Switzerland, who despite being led by an older core, have developed into one of the tournament's most overlooked squads.

Canada 1, Bosnia and Herzegovina 1 - Yes, the first three games of this year's World Cup will be draws if my predictions come to fruition. I think once Canada gets over the hump of their first World Cup win, they can take advantage of these sides in weaker form, but Bosnia can definitely fight Canada in fan spirit and talent on the pitch.

Switzerland 4, Qatar 0 - A huge result from the Swiss to open up their World Cup campaign and record the largest win of the tournament thus far. Qatar is very weak and in terrible form and a strong Swiss squad can definitely take advantage.

Switzerland 2, Bosnia and Herzegovina 0 - A Switzerland team led by Granit Xhaka will be very difficult to score on, and Bosnia won't be able to.

Canada 1, Qatar 0 - It's close, but Canada finally get over the hump to get their World Cup win. It's a huge milestone for the nation and could fuel something bigger.

Switzerland 2, Canada 2 - Neither team is very prone to scoring goals, but both teams have enough to score them. Canada shock Switzerland after registering their first World Cup win and secure second in the group.

Bosnia and Herzegovina 2, Qatar 1 - Qatar do get their second ever World Cup goal and almost their first ever point before Edin Džeko rescues his nation in stoppage time.

Final Table:

1. Switzerland 7 (+6)

2. Canada 5 (+1)

3. Bosnia and Herzegovina 4 (-1)

4. Qatar 0 (-6)

GROUP C

The first group that features a true top tier squad, in fact two, is Group C. Brazil are one of the overlooked favorites to win the whole tournament led by Raphinha and Vinicius Jr., but will have to look past a difficult World Cup qualifying campaign to progress far in the tournament. Morocco are defending World Cup semifinalists and AFCON champions (officially I guess) and look to make another deep run. Scotland qualified for their first World Cup in 28 years and ninth overall but have yet to make it out of the group stage of any of their previous twelve major tournament appearances; can Scott McTominay and co. finally bring Scotland to the knockouts? Haiti haven't been to a World Cup since 1974 and face a very tough group, but with an inspiring performance in the final World Cup qualifying window, they will be hoping to shock one of the footballing giants.

Brazil 1, Morocco 0 - Brazil need to attack down the left side in hopes of a goal due to Hakimi's presence on the right. Morocco's best hope is a defensive battle, but Brazil has too much talent and firepower to be held off by Morocco for a full 90 minutes.

Scotland 3, Haiti 1 - A much more goal-heavy game sees the Scots come out on top and take a big step towards getting out of a group for the first time.

Scotland 2, Morocco 2 - A huge result for Scotland and a shocker for Morocco. McTominay scores a wondergoal to save the Scots and force a stalemate, almost guaranteeing his side a spot in the knockouts after two matchdays.

Brazil 5, Haiti 2 - Brazil's defense can be worrisome, but they will destroy Haiti's. Neymar is back on the pitch for this one and gets his first goal contribution as Brazil secures the knockouts.

Morocco 2, Haiti 0 - Morocco does enough to keep themselves in the hunt for the knockouts with a solid and clean win over Haiti.

Brazil 2, Scotland 1 - Brazil become the first team to finish on nine points in the group stage by finishing off with a win over Scotland, forcing the Scots onto the same points as Morocco and a second place finish on goals scored.

Final Table:

1. Brazil 9 (+5)

2. Scotland 4 (+1)

3. Morocco 4 (+1)

4. Haiti 0 (-7)

GROUP D

Group D has a case for being the closest overall in the tournament, with all four teams almost inseparable in talent and performance. Turkey with up-and-comers Arda Güler and Kenin Yildiz are poised for loads of goals in the attack, but as with Euro 2024, defense is a question looming over the national team. Paraguay is extremely underrated heading into the tournament after a strong World Cup qualifying campaign in which they finished level on points with Colombia, Uruguay, and Brazil. The United States comes into this World Cup with home field advantage but the pressure of expectations, and the lack of American goalkeeper talent and questions in the attack make the U.S. prone to embarrassment like in Copa America 2024. Australia is being written off by many despite beating Denmark and almost Argentina in a run to the Round of 16 in the 2022 World Cup, but the friendly results have been very mixed.

Paraguay 2, United States 0 - The United States flashes-back to the 2024 Copa America defeat to Panama with a bad group stage loss on home soil to a team of similar quality to themselves. Paraguay proves they belong on the big stage and take the first step forward in Group D.

Australia 1, Turkey 1 - Underdogs Australia stun overall group favorites Turkey with an excellent performance to keep themselves in Group D. Advantage, Paraguay.

Australia 1, United States 0 - The United States again underrate their opponents and fall to group underdogs Australia to put themselves in a precarious situation headed into the final matchday.

Turkey 3, Paraguay 1 - The firepower comes out for Turkey as their young stars get on the scoresheet in a big win over Paraguay to take co-control over the group with Australia.

Paraguay 1, Australia 1 - It's a dissapointing result for both teams but especially Paraguay who have to wait to see if they make the knockouts in third place.

United States 0, Turkey 0 - Turkey is held by the United States as the Americans bow out with their only dissapointing point in the group finale. Turkey still advances automatically with five points.

Final Table:

1. Turkey 5 (+2)

2. Australia 5 (+1)

3. Paraguay 4 (0)

4. United States 1 (-3)

GROUP E

Welcome to Group E, where three teams will be defending like crazy and one team will be leaking goals. Germany is the clear favorite to top the group but have lost at this stage in the past two World Cups. Ecuador is being pinned as a major dark horse after allowing only five goals in World Cup qualifiers and is poised to challenge for the top of the group. Ivory Coast allowed zero, yes you saw that right, goals in World Cup qualifiers en route to a first appearance since 2014 and the 2023 AFCON champions are hoping to shock the world. Curaçao has arguably the toughest road ahead of them in the entire tournament as the smallest population to ever play at a World Cup and one of the debutants, but a team almost entirely from the Netherlands could pose a threat to one of their group foes.

Germany 3, Curaçao 0 - This is going to be a wake up call that could be much worse for Curaçao. It was a huge accomplishment to make it here, but Germany and the World Cup as a whole are much too good on Matchday 1 for the island territory.

Ivory Coast 0, Ecuador 0 - Surprising absolutely nobody, Ivory Coast and Ecuador battle to a goalless draw. No offense in this one as expected.

Ivory Coast 2, Germany 1 - These two defenses may be among the best in the world, but both attacks are almost as good. Ivory Coast stuns Germany to put their knockout hopes in jeapordy but a last minute goal could save Germany's goal differential.

Ecuador 1, Curaçao 0 - It's close for Curaçao in this one but Ecuador squeaks it out against the group bottom-feeders to pretty much send them home all but mathematically.

Ivory Coast 3, Curaçao 0 - Curaçao go goalless in the group and the Ivory Coast shows they are the true dark horse to come out of this group by topping it on the final matchday.

Germany 0, Ecuador 0 - Germany keep themselves alive and in a much better position with a goalless draw with Ecuador that robs the South Americans of first in the group.

Final Table:

1. Ivory Coast 6 (+4)

2. Ecuador 5 (+1)

3. Germany 4 (+2)

4. Curaçao 0 (-7)

GROUP F

This is an absolutely fascinating group with four talented teams. The Netherlands are one of the best teams in the world but come into the World Cup on bad form and after a slightly rocky time in World Cup qualification against Poland. Japan are being flagged as one of the world's most dangerous teams to watch for this summer but are plagued by the injuries of Minamino and Mitoma in the attack. Sweden are the most mystifying team in the entire tournament; they didn't win a single game in the group phase of World Cup qualifiers but handled Ukraine and then Poland to advance to the World Cup through the playoffs, so which version of a star-studded Sweden will we get? Tunisia is the obvious team at the bottom but Tunisia took out Denmark at the last World Cup and could shock similarly again.

Netherlands 2, Japan 1 - The group favorites take care of business against a threatening Japan and take the advantage in Group F. Japan need to recover.

Sweden 1, Tunisia 1 - A huge result for Tunisia and it appears Sweden have not woken up on the right side of the bed for this window of matches. They need to recover.

Sweden 2, Netherlands 0 - Sweden with a massive result to get themselves back on track as Isak strikes the Scandanavians above the Netherlands to the top of the group.

Japan 2, Tunisia 0 - Japan take care of business to get their World Cup campaign back on track. This will all come down to a precarious final matchday in Group F.

Netherlands 3, Tunisia 1 - It's a dissapointing end to the campaign for Tunisia after a great start to the group stage but Netherlands secure their spot in the knockouts with a big win.

Sweden 1, Japan 0 - Japan's lack of attacking starpower due to injuries comes to haunt them as they take the loss to group winners Sweden on the final matchday and await the third place table to be finalized.

Final Table:

1. Sweden 7 (+3)

2. Netherlands 6 (+1)

3. Japan 3 (0)

4. Tunisia 1 (-4)

GROUP G

The most wide open group to three teams that have never been to the knockouts of the World Cup is Group G. Belgium are the group heavyweights but there are doubts about the end of the golden generation for a team that is in good form but struggled in qualifiers. Iran are the second-best team in the group but have political issues to worry about when attempting to play in the United States and will have a lot of travel miles. This is arguably Egypt's last hope for a while at finally winning a World Cup match as Mo Salah's career begins to decline. New Zealand has finally brought a team from Oceania back to the World Cup but face an uphill battle to get out of Group G in their first tournament appearance since 2010.

Belgium 1, Egypt 1 - Egypt can't quite get their first ever World Cup win but they open the tournament with a big result against a dissapointing Belgium who will need to recover to top the group.

New Zealand 2, Iran 2 - It's a high-scoring draw that keeps everything level at a point each after one matchday in Group G. Iran will need better results to keep themselves afloat and alive for the knockouts.

Belgium 3, Iran 0 - Belgium puts in a much better performance to take hold of the group and Iran will need to beat Egypt to stand any chance for the knockouts.

Egypt 3, New Zealand 1 - An excellent performance for a well-deserved first World Cup win for Mo Salah and co. to take Egypt to second in the group.

Belgium 2, New Zealand 0 - Belgium get another very solid defensive win to officially knock out New Zealand and internet sensation Tim Payne.

Iran 0, Egypt 0 - Iran needed a win and could not get it against an Egypt side that will be very satisfied with going undefeated in the group stage and with a second place.

Final Table:

1. Belgium 7 (+5)

2. Egypt 5 (+2)

3. Iran 2 (-3)

4. New Zealand 1 (-4)

GROUP H

This SHOULD be the most straightforward group of this entire World Cup. We have the clear favorites Spain who are co-favorites to win the entire tournament and are coming off of a Euro 2024 title. We have a very strong Uruguay who look much stronger than their group stage exit squad from the 2022 tournament and should be ready for the knockouts. We have a Saudi Arabia team who has significant instability of a new Greek manager just weeks before the World Cup and has been terrible in friendlies other than a draw with Senegal. We have Cape Verde who were absolutely clinical in African World Cup qualifiers but are making their debut at the World Cup.

Spain 3, Cape Verde 1 - It's really unfortunate but also a blessing in disguise for the minnows of the tournament to come up against tournament favorites in matchday one. Spain will take care of business against Cape Verde who will gain valuable experience for more important matches.

Uruguay 5, Saudi Arabia 0 - These two played at the 2018 World Cup in Group A but Saudi Arabia will be no threat at this tournament. No opening shocker from Saudi this time and Uruguay will comfortably take control of the group after one match.

Spain 2, Saudi Arabia 0 - Spain continues to keep things close against the group minnows and will likely need a win against Uruguay on matchday three to top Group H.

Uruguay 1, Cape Verde 0 - Uruguay with a stoppage time winner to break Cape Verde's hearts! Uruguay get their act together against a stronger team and keep control over their own destiny heading into the clash against Spain.

Cape Verde 3, Saudi Arabia 2 - A huge win and a contender for match of the tournament as Cape Verde secures their first World Cup win on debut and puts themselves in contention to qualify for the knockouts.

Spain 2, Uruguay 0 - Spain handle Uruguay with conviction to top the only group thus far without a single draw. Uruguay have to be happy with second after failing to get out of their group in 2022.

Final Table:

1. Spain 9 (+6)

2. Uruguay 6 (+4)

3. Cape Verde 3 (-2)

4. Saudi Arabia 0 (-8)

GROUP I

The group of death has arrived. France is the other co-favorites to win the entire tournament after reaching the semifinals of Euro 2024, and Norway is the most popular pick to be the dark horse of the tournament after a great display in World Cup qualification. Senegal are the reigning AFCON champions (I guess) after winning the tournament on the pitch but have been in a run of recent poor form, and Iraq is...well...there. We truly will see what will happen as there's not much to say. Four teams, three contenders, six games, one group winner.

France 1, Senegal 0 - France take care of business in game number one. Senegal have to be proud of themselves for putting up such a great fight but dissapointed they couldn't get it done or earn any points.

Norway 3, Iraq 0 - It's a masterclass from Norway on both ends of the pitch as they top the table after one matchday, and Iraq may be in over their heads in Group I.

France 4, Iraq 1 - France absolutely thrashes Iraq to get back in control of Group I, and Iraq's World Cup dreams almost certainly have to be demolished after back-to-back three goal losses.

Norway 3, Senegal 2 - Norway win again to tie France at the top of the table on six points, and Senegal must win against Iraq to keep themselves in knockout contention in the third-place table.

France 4, Norway 3 - The true game of the group stage unfolds on matchday three in Group I as France completes the three-game sweep to top the table and Norway finishes close behind in second.

Senegal 0, Iraq 0 - Pure dissapointment from both sides, but more especially Senegal, as they see their World Cup dreams pretty much come to an end with only a single point in Group I.

Final Table:

1. France 9 (+5)

2. Norway 6 (+3)

3. Senegal 1 (-2)

4. Iraq 1 (-6)

GROUP J

The group of the "A" teams and debutants Jordan, where two squads will hope to challenge and shock Argentina. The defending World Cup winners sit in Group I after also taking home to title at Copa America 2024 and have regained their spot at #1 in the world with five straight friendly wins. Austria have to be full of confidence under Ralf Ragnick as despite a Round of 16 loss to Turkey, the Austrians topped their Euro 2024 group over France, Netherlands, and Poland. Algeria has quietly stepped up their form with a win over the Netherlands and a draw with Uruguay to back up an AFCON 2025 quarterfinal run. Jordan appear to be the team that is just happy to be here but have also had an incredible rise of their own including a great World Cup qualifying campaign and an AFC Cup 2025 trip to the final where they ultimately lost to Qatar.

Argentina 1, Algeria 1 - Algeria stun Argentina to begin their World Cup campaign leaving the African outfit ready to

Austria 2, Jordan 1 - Jordan get to score their first ever World Cup goal in their first ever World Cup match but it is unfortunately not enough as Austria take the first win of Group J.

Argentina 1, Austria 0 - Argentina does very well to score on and then defend against a tough Austrian side that will be hungry for another point to secure the knockouts on matchday three.

Algeria 0, Jordan 0 - Jordan do what it takes to get their first ever World Cup point with a solid nil-nil draw against Algeria who need a point on matchday three against Austria

Algeria 1, Austria 1 - It's yet another draw for Algeria who now finish Group J with three draws which should be just enough to get to the knockouts. Austria have to be satisfied with at least second.

Argentina 3, Jordan 0 - In the co-last match of the group stage, Argentina handily takes care of business and knocks out Jordan to finish Group J at the top and undefeated.

Final Table:

1. Argentina 7 (+4)

2. Austria 4 (0)

3. Algeria 3 (0)

4. Jordan 1 (-4)

GROUP K

This is a group with a clear top two and a clear bottom two on paper. Portugal are the reigning UEFA Nations League champions and easily topped their World Cup qualifying group undefeated, but are plagued by injuries and the playing time of an age-old Ronaldo. Colombia struggle for star power but are led by James Rodriguez who is a different kind of player for his national team and are primed for a run. DR Congo are competing at the World Cup for the first time ever under their current name and first time since 1974 when they competed as Zaire and looked clean in a win over Jamaica in the Intercontinental Playoffs. Uzbekistan have been on the rise in the footballing world with a quarterfinal appearance at the AFC Asian Cup in which they lost on penalties to the eventual champion and starred in World Cup qualifiers finishing just behind Iran.

Portugal 1, DR Congo 0 - The Portuguese take care of business in their first match against a weak-looking DR Congo side but will need to be wary of the other two teams in the group.

Colombia 2, Uzbekistan 0 - Colombia also do what they need to in a clean win over debutants Uzbekistan who need to shake the nerves out in time for their huge match against DR Congo.

Colombia 3, DR Congo 0 - The South American side do what they need to do with another clean win over a DR Congo that desperately needs to find a way to score goals.

Portugal 2, Uzbekistan 1 - Uzbekistan can't do enough and will need to win their final match as they fall in a close battle to Portugal who should be clear into the knockouts.

Colombia 0, Portugal 0 - A close defensive battle ends goalless as Colombia and Portugal share the points and the top of the table as the group stage comes to a close.

Uzbekistan 2, DR Congo 1 - It's just enough for Uzbekistan who put themselves in third on three points and wait for the third place table to be finalized, eliminating DR Congo who finally get their World Cup goal but it's too little too late.

Final Table:

1. Colombia 7 (+5)

2. Portugal 7 (+2)

3. Uzbekistan 3 (-2)

4. DR Congo 0 (-5)

GROUP L

The final group is Group L, where once more two favorites clash with two underdogs. England have a very good shot to finally bring the World Cup home under manager Tuchel who has brought inspiration to a talented squad, but they will need to be able to win under pressure against the best teams in close matches to take home the trophy, something they've failed to do since 1966. Croatia are reaching the end of the golden age that has brough them silver and bronze at the World Cup in successive tournaments, and this is the final opportunity for gold for a team that has been relatively good in friendlies and has an incredible midfield. Ghana have really struggled since the 2022 World Cup, getting grouped by a stoppage time mishap in AFCON 2023 and missing AFCON 2025, but they did manage to get their act together to limp over the finish line and qualify for this tournament in a weak qualifying group. Panama are back at the World Cup after failing to qualify for the 2022 edition but are looking better than ever after a run to the quarterfinals of Copa America 2024 and good results against Bosnia and South Africa in recent friendlies.

England 2, Croatia 0 - A fresh and trained England handle an aging Croatia that has its work cut out to take a big step forward in Group L.

Panama 3, Ghana 1 - It's a huge result that Panama truly needed to be in contention for the knockouts as they put Ghana in a very precarious situation in the race to qualify for the knockout stage.

England 2, Ghana 0 - England again put up a very clean result to almost certainly qualify for the next stage and put Ghana on the verge of being knocked out of the tournament.

Croatia 2, Panama 2 - The North American underdogs pull off the result they truly needed against a flailing Croatia to give themselves a fighting chance at automatic qualification headed into a final day showdown with England.

England 3, Panama 2 - It's an absolute masterclass from a surging Panama that is just ruined by England's late goal that allows them to top Group L over either Panama or Croatia.

Croatia 1, Ghana 0 - An almost certainly already eliminated Ghana needed a massive result but couldn't get it done and will end up knocked out after losing to a Croatia team that will certainly hope to get into the knockouts.

Final Table:

1. England 9 (+5)

2. Panama 5 (+1)

3. Croatia 4 (-1)

4. Ghana 1 (-5)

Third-Place Table

Final Table:

1. Germany 4 (+2)

2. Morocco 4 (+1)

3. Paraguay 4 (0)

4. Croatia 4 (-1)

5. Bosnia and Herzegovina 4 (-1)

6. Japan 3 (0)

7. Algeria 3 (0)

8. Uzbekistan 3 (-2)

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9. Cape Verde 3 (-2)

10. South Africa 2 (-1)

11. Iran 2 (-3)

12. Senegal 1 (-2)

Round of 32

Ivory Coast 3, Paraguay 1 - The battle between two teams that probably weren't predicted to be playing each other in a knockout game goes to the ultimate dark horses.

France 1, Japan 0 - Japan just doesn't have enough in them to make another World Cup run as they are taken down by tournament favorites France in the first knockout round.

Canada 2, Czechia 1 (aet) - This seems like a gift of a path for Canada to the Round of 16 and they take full advantage by beating a lazy Czechia, though it does take extra time.

Scotland 2, Sweden 2 (p. 4-2) - The inconsistencies come back to haunt the Swedes as they bow out to a surprisingly strong Scotland who's into the Round of 16 on penalties.

Portugal 3, Panama 0 - Portugal puts up a full display of talent as they take advantage of the favorable draw to knock off surprise Panama.

Spain 0, Austria 0 (p. 2-1) - It takes everything Spain has to just barely get past Ralf Ragnick and Austria on the final penalty of the shootout and continue their trophy hunt.

Turkey 2, Bosnia 0 - A solid win for the Turks takes them into a first Round of 16 since their semifinal run in 2002 and knocks out the Bosnians in their first appearance since 2014.

Germany 3, Belgium 1 - A horrible turn of events from Belgium who topped their group but drew Germany in the first round of the knockouts and the weaknesses of the golden generation are embarrassed.

Netherlands 3, Brazil 1 (aet) - In a huge clash of the titans in the Round of 32 the Netherlands upset one of the tournament favorites Brazil and send them all the way home to secure their spot in the Round of 16.

Ecuador 0, Norway 0 (p. 3-2) - In another huge battle between dark horses the Ecuador defense completely locks down Norway's attack for two hours before putting away the Scandinavians on penalties.

Morocco 2, Mexico 0 - Morocco takes care of business against disappointed hosts Mexico and its home atmosphere to take the African side to the Round of 16 once again.

England 3, Uzbekistan 0 - England play yet another clean game, this time in the knockouts, to advance to a tasty showdown with Morocco and knock out the debutants.

Argentina 2, Uruguay 1 - Defending champions Argentina get through the Uruguayan defense just enough to expose Bielsa's flaws and knock out their fellow South Americans to advance to the Round of 16.

Australia 3, Egypt 2 (aet) - In the battle between two teams that have never won a knockout match before Australia comes out on top to set up a rematch of the 2022 Round of 16 with Argentina.

Switzerland 2, Algeria 0 - An incredible performance from dark horses Switzerland to get themselves past a tricky Algeria and end their run and to advance into the Round of 16.

Colombia 2, Croatia 1 - Colombia hold their nerve to fend off attacks from the deadly Croatian midfield and advance to the Round of 16 once again.

Round of 16

France 4, Ivory Coast 2 - France reverses the result of the friendly from just before the World Cup to move to yet another quarterfinal and end the run of dark horse Ivory Coast.

Canada 1, Scotland 0 - Superb Canada shocks the world to beat a lackluster Scotland and advance to a first ever World Cup quarterfinal on home soil.

Portugal 2, Spain 2 (p. 4-1) - Despite being labeled as one of the weaker favorites Portugal breaks through with a huge win over favorites Spain to launch themselves into the quarterfinals.

Germany 2, Turkey 0 - A nice victory for Germany to move to the quarterfinals of a World Cup for the first time since 2014 and end a young Turkey's run short.

Netherlands 1, Ecuador 0 - The Netherlands take advantage of their one opportunity against a stubborn Ecuadorian defense to advance to a second straight World Cup quarterfinal.

England 1, Morocco 0 (aet) - An excellent victory for England as they knock off Morocco to advance to the same quarterfinal stage they lost at in the 2022 World Cup.

Argentina 3, Australia 0 - A satisfied Australia once again doesn't have enough to deal with a talented Argentina side that storms its way to another quarterfinal.

Switzerland 2, Colombia 1 - Pure heartbreak for the Colombians who once again lose earlier in a World Cup than they'd like as Switzerland quietly takes care of business.

Quarterfinals

France 3, Canada 1 - France does what they need to with the easiest match of the quarterfinals to take down home nation Canada in a maiden quarterfinal.

Germany 3, Portugal 1 (aet) - Germany piles on the goals in extra time to advance to the semifinals of a World Cup for the first time in twelve years and end Ronaldo's dream.

England 0, Netherlands 0 (p. 2-1) - The Three Lions do what is needed in their quest for a first World Cup since 1966 and take down the Dutch to reach a first semifinal since 2018.

Switzerland 1, Argentina 0 - Switzerland stun the final South American team in the competition to eliminate the defending champions and move to a first ever World Cup semifinal.

Semifinals

Germany 2, France 2 (p. 3-2) - In a huge shock Germany takes out defending finalists and World Cup favorites France to advance to a first final in twelve years and move one match away from being crowned champions.

England 3, Switzerland 1 - England beat underdogs and dark horses Switzerland to advance to their first World Cup final since their title in 1966 and send the Swiss to the third-place match.

Third-Place

France 4, Switzerland 1 - France smash Switzerland to earn their bronze medal and end their 2026 World Cup campaign on a win.

Third-Place

England 2, Germany 0 - IT'S COMING HOME!!! Not that I want it, but England have truly finally put all of the talent together into a World Cup-winning team and Thomas Tuchel beats his own nation to win the Three Lions a first World Cup in 60 years.