"As near-unanimous No. 1 picks in our inaugural Power Rankings, scooping up 15 of 21 first-place votes, it appears as though this is already La Roja's world and we're all just living in it. Will the World Cup run in much the same way, though?"
"The last week in March will see the final six tournament spots claimed, with four teams from Europe and two more via an intercontinental playoff. We also have the dramatic, high-pressure final weeks of the European club season, in which any injuries to top players will undoubtedly impact World Cup chances for a wide range of nations depending on the severity."
With 100 days until the 2026 World Cup begins on June 11 when Mexico hosts South Africa, ESPN FC released power rankings of the top 15 strongest nations. The rankings were compiled by polling ESPN FC reporters and global journalists to assess the field as it currently stands. Several significant events remain before the tournament: the final six qualifying spots will be claimed in late March through European playoffs and intercontinental matchups, the European club season will conclude with potential injuries affecting player availability, and coaches will make final roster cuts weeks before competition begins. Spain emerged as the near-unanimous number one pick, securing 15 of 21 first-place votes. Additional rankings will be released at the 50-day mark when all teams qualify and again before the opening ceremony once rosters are finalized.
Read at ESPN.com
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