GROUP L — FIFA WORLD CUP 2026
The Teams
Group Analysis
Belgium enter what feels like their last chance with a golden generation — De Bruyne, Lukaku, Courtois — who have never delivered on their potential at a World Cup. Group L gives them a very manageable draw on paper. Venezuela have never qualified for a World Cup before this tournament and their inclusion is one of football's great stories of the decade. Paraguay are tough, physical and experienced. New Zealand qualify through OFC and bring passion if not the highest technical quality.
Key Match to Watch
Belgium vs Venezuela — the most intriguing cultural and football contrast of any group stage game. Belgium's golden generation against South America's most remarkable first-time qualifier.
Prediction
🏆 ADVANCING: Belgium and Venezuela
Belgium should top Group L comfortably. Venezuela's historic qualification and growing talent base sees them through to the knockout stage in a stunning upset over Paraguay.