2026 FIFA World Cup Power Rankings: Argentina Move Up After Messi's Hat-Trick

Alexi Lalas has published his latest power rankings for the FIFA World Cup 2026, with Argentina rising to first place after Lionel Messi's historic hat-trick against Algeria. The player from Inter Miami honored the leadership of Group J after defeating Algeria, 3-0, and Argentina proved that they are still the first to be feared in the tournament.

Here are Lalas' Top 10 Power Rankings this week:

10. Japan — The Samurai Blue showed resilience, overturning a twice-delayed Netherlands lead to draw 2-2 in their World Cup opener. Threat of possible loss of Takefusa Kubo due to injury.

9. United States — The host nation got off to a good start, with Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun leading the way to a 4-1 win over Paraguay in Group D.

8. Colombia — The South American team is still hot in the prickly conditions of the United States. There is a lot of confidence in James Rodríguez and winger Luis Díaz to carry them through Group K.

7. Morocco — No longer just an underdog, they showed strength after a 1-1 draw against Brazil in Group C. Expect Brahim Díaz to lead the attack.

6. Germany — Although not star-studded, Julian Nagelsmann's men under the leadership of Jamal Musiala still have a long way to go. Remains dominant in Group E.

5. Portugal — The pressure is on for Cristiano Ronaldo to capture the only major trophy not already in his collection. No goals against DR Congo but he still has many chances in the tournament.

4. England — England's line-up is very deep today, led by Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Declan Rice. Many are hoping that this will be the year to win another international trophy.

3. Spain — Hot on the heels of success, unbeaten since March 2024 and former Euro 2024 champions. Pedri and Lamine Yamal stabilize the midfield.

2. France — Nothing beats France's combination of talent and guts. Kylian Mbappé scored two goals against Senegal, guiding Didier Deschamps to the possible last tournament as a coach.

1. Argentina — None other than Lionel Messi was at the center of Argentina's victory, beating Algeria 3-0. While a back-to-back championship is a tough target, they are clearly still the team to watch.

With the ongoing World Cup 2026 match, expect the power rankings to change along with the results of important matches. Azkals Goal will continue to focus on every event in the tournament.

Related Articles

1. Zlatan Ibrahimović và Thierry Henry không muốn tranh luận về Lionel Messi 2. Thierry Henry defende Messi após falta em Mandi: "Não merecia cartão vermelho"