From one to 48 – every World Cup team ranked after first game

From One to 48: World Cup Teams Ranked After Opening Match

From one to 48 - Following the first round of fixtures, BBC Sport experts have assessed all 48 teams competing in the tournament. Their rankings reflect performances and potential, though some surprises emerged. Here’s a breakdown of the standings:

1. France (Group I)

France delivered a commanding victory over Senegal, showcasing their pre-tournament anticipation with a dominant second-half display. Their balanced squad and cohesive play made them a formidable contender.

2. England (Group L)

England’s 4-2 win against Croatia highlighted their attacking prowess, led by Harry Kane’s standout contribution. While the result was impressive, defensive lapses raised questions about their consistency.

3. Argentina (Group G)

Argentina’s 3-0 win over Algeria solidified their position in the top three. The presence of Lionel Messi, paired with a resilient team, ensured their early dominance.

4. Germany (Group E)

Germany’s 7-1 thrashing of Curacao underscored their attacking firepower. Despite the weak opposition, the scoreline demonstrated their ability to overwhelm rivals.

5. USA (Group D)

The USA’s 4-1 victory over Paraguay earned them a spot in the top five. Their polished execution and home advantage made them a rising force.

6. Norway (Group I)

Norway’s 4-1 win against Iraq showcased their reliance on Erling Haaland’s clinical finishing. The team’s setup maximizes his strengths, ensuring a potent attack.

7. Colombia (Group K)

Colombia’s 3-1 win over Uzbekistan revealed a blend of speed and creativity, with Luis Diaz’s flair adding an extra dimension. Their physicality could trouble many opponents.

8. Morocco (Group C)

Morocco’s 1-1 draw with Brazil was a mix of promise and caution. They dominated the first 20 minutes but settled for a point in the second half, hinting at untapped potential.

9. Brazil (Group C)

Brazil’s 1-1 draw with Morocco raised questions about their early-season form. A shaky start contrasted with their tactical resilience, keeping hopes alive.

10. Sweden (Group F)

Sweden’s 5-1 win over Tunisia highlighted their attacking depth and midfield precision. Two Premier League strikers and a goal-savvy midfield position them as dark horses.

11. Australia (Group D)

Australia’s 2-0 victory over Turkey defied expectations. A fast-paced, efficient display helped them overcome a team rated as favorites on paper.

12. Spain (Group H)

Spain’s 0-0 draw with Cape Verde was a shocker. Despite creating multiple chances, their lack of urgency in the final stages left fans questioning their readiness.

13. Netherlands (Group F)

The Netherlands’ 2-2 draw with Japan revealed defensive vulnerabilities. A more disciplined performance could have secured a higher ranking.

14. Mexico (Group A)

Mexico’s 2-0 win over South Africa was decisive, though their opponent’s poor quality softened the challenge. Cesar Montes’ red card in stoppage time added drama.

15. Japan (Group F)

Japan’s 2-2 draw with the Netherlands was a gritty effort. They clawed back from a dire situation, though their ambition in attack left room for improvement.

16. Scotland (Group C)

Scotland’s 1-0 win over Haiti was a solid result, but their lackluster performance suggested they need more cohesion. Persistent pressure may affect their progress.

17. Cape Verde (Group H)

Cape Verde’s 0-0 draw with Spain marked a breakthrough. Their second-string squad and Vozinha’s heroics made them an underdog to watch.

18. Belgium (Group G)

Belgium’s 1-1 draw with Egypt was a mixed bag. An own goal sealed the result, but their attacking creativity hinted at a strong group stage run.

19. Egypt (Group G)

Egypt’s 1-1 draw with Belgium was a step forward, but their lack of sustained pressure left them reliant on a single goal. Emam Ashour’s strike was a bright spot.

20. Senegal (Group I)

Senegal’s 3-1 loss to France was expected, yet they held out until the 66th minute. Nicolas Jackson’s missed post shot in the first half kept their chances alive.

21. Portugal (Group K)

Portugal’s 1-1 draw with DR Congo highlighted their dependence on Cristiano Ronaldo. The team’s midfield struggles and reliance on star power were evident.

22. Croatia (Group L)

Croatia’s 4-2 defeat to England showcased their offensive flair but exposed defensive frailties. Their two goals against England were a reminder of past glory.

23. DR Congo (Group K)

DR Congo’s 1-1 draw with Portugal was a defensive masterclass. Their organized structure and quick transitions threatened opponents throughout.

24. Switzerland (Group B)

Switzerland’s 1-1 draw with Qatar was a letdown. They created numerous chances but squandered opportunities, leaving room for criticism.

25. New Zealand (Group G)

New Zealand’s 2-2 draw with Iran was a testament to their grit. A lowly-ranked team managed a respectable result, with Elijah Just emerging as a standout player.

26. Netherlands (Group F)

Netherlands’ draw with Japan was a tale of two halves. Their attacking dominance in the first period was matched by defensive errors in the second.

27. Mexico (Group A)

Mexico’s 2-0 victory over South Africa was a statement of intent. The match underscored their superiority, though a red card late on added uncertainty.

28. Scotland (Group C)

Scotland’s 1-0 win over Haiti was modest, but it revealed a team still finding its rhythm. The pressure of 28 years of expectations may be weighing on them.

29. Norway (Group I)

Norway’s 4-1 win against Iraq showcased their attacking efficiency. Haaland’s goal-scoring ability and team structure made them a dangerous side.

30. USA (Group D)

The USA’s 4-1 win over Paraguay was a showcase of tactical sharpness. Their ability to exploit gaps in defense and capitalize on set pieces was impressive.

31. Brazil (Group C)

Brazil’s 1-1 draw with Morocco was a test of resilience. While their shaky start raised concerns, their squad depth proved crucial in salvaging a draw.

32. Sweden (Group F)

Sweden’s 5-1 victory over Tunisia highlighted their attacking flair. A midfield that understands goal-scoring and strikers ready to deliver made them a rising threat.

33. Scotland (Group C)

Scotland’s 1-0 win over Haiti was a modest triumph, but their poor execution suggested room for growth. The challenge of maintaining composure remains.

34. Cape Verde (Group H)

Cape Verde’s 0-0 draw with Spain was a surprise. Vozinha’s leadership and the team’s disciplined approach made them a contender despite their low profile.

35. Belgium (Group G)

Belgium’s 1-1 draw with Egypt was a case of missed chances. Their ability to create opportunities was evident, but defensive lapses kept them from climbing higher.

36. Portugal (Group K)

Portugal’s 1-1 draw with DR Congo was a defensive triumph. Ronaldo’s presence remained central, but the team’s reliance on him was a double-edged sword.

37. DR Congo (Group K)

DR Congo’s 1-1 draw with Portugal was a display of tactical awareness. Their organized defense and counter-attacks