World Cup opens in USA: Brazil and Switzerland start as favorites
Two Group Stage openers: Brazil face Morocco, Qatar take on Switzerland. Expect cautious starts.
World Cup 2026 kicks off with two group openers
The tournament begins today with Group B and Group C clashes. Both matches are first games for these teams, so expect measured approaches. Favorites should prevail, but goals may be scarce.
Qatar vs Switzerland - Group B
Switzerland have a strong tournament pedigree, while Qatar are World Cup debutants (excluding 2022 as hosts). The Swiss should control possession and create chances, but Qatar will be compact. A low-scoring Swiss win is the most likely outcome.
- Switzerland to win -3 confidence
- Under 2.5 goals -3 confidence
Brazil vs Morocco - Group C
Brazil are the pre-tournament favorites, but Morocco proved their mettle in 2022. Expect a tight first half, but Brazil's quality should tell. Still, Morocco's defense will keep it close. Brazil to edge it in a low-scoring affair.
- Brazil to win -4 confidence
- Under 2.5 goals -2 confidence
What would prove me wrong
If Qatar or Morocco score early and force Switzerland or Brazil to chase, goals could open up. A draw in either match would be a surprise. High-scoring games would invalidate the under picks.