The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be the most historic edition yet, featuring an expanded 48-team format across 16 host cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
In this complete World Cup 2026 Group Predictions guide, we break down all Groups A–L with early favorites, dark horses, and qualification chances.
This major expansion introduces 104 matches over 39 days, kicking off on June 11 and culminating in the Final at MetLife Stadium on July 19.
Predictions for this tournament are shaped by a mix of traditional powerhouses and rising nations, including exciting debutants like Cape Verde, Curaçao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan.
With the introduction of a new Round of 32 knockout phase, squad depth and consistency in the group stage will be more crucial than ever.
Below, you’ll find a complete breakdown of all 12 groups (A–L), including key players, tactical insights, predicted standings, and the eight teams expected to qualify as the best third-placed finishers.
World Cup 2026 Group Predictions Overview
Format of Group Stage (A–L Explained)
The 2026 FIFA World Cup introduces a brand-new expanded format featuring 48 teams divided into 12 groups (A–L), making it the biggest tournament in history.
Each group consists of four teams playing in a round-robin format, where every team competes in three matches.
At the end of the group stage, the top two teams from each group automatically qualify for the knockout rounds. They are joined by the eight best third-placed teams, completing the 32-team lineup for the Round of 32.
This new system increases competition, giving more teams a chance to progress while also raising the stakes in every group-stage match.
Key Favourites Across All Groups
France, Spain, Argentina, England, Portugal, Brazil, Netherlands, and Belgium remain the tournament’s elite. Host nations USA, Mexico, and Canada carry high expectations to lead their respective groups on home soil.
Group A Teams & Overview
Group A features a fascinating mix of experience, emerging talent, and home advantage, with Mexico, South Korea, South Africa, and the Czech Republic all battling for a place in the knockout stage.
Widely considered one of the most unpredictable groups in the tournament, all four teams have realistic ambitions of progressing, making every match crucial.
The group’s matches will be held primarily in Mexico City and Zapopan, with one match in Atlanta, Georgia.
As co-hosts, Mexico are automatically qualified and are the statistical favorites to win the group.
South Korea are entering the tournament for the 11th consecutive time, having qualified undefeated from a challenging third-round group in Asia and are expected to be Mexico’s primary rivals for the top seed.
South Africa is returning to the World Cup for the first time since hosting in 2010. They are joined by the Czech Republic, which secured their place in the tournament through a high-stakes UEFA play-off victory.
Key Players to Watch in Group A
Mexico: Santiago Giménez
South Korea: Son Heung-min
Czechia: Patrik Schick
South Africa: Percy Tau
Final Group A Standings Prediction
| Position | Team | Prediction |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mexico | Group Winners |
| 2 | South Korea | Runners-up |
| 3 | Czech Republic | Potential Best-third Qualifier |
| 4 | South Africa | Group Stage Exit |
Who Will Qualify from Group A?
- Mexico (1st)
- South Korea (2nd)
- Czech Republic (Best 3rd contender)
Bold Prediction: Czech Republic could shock South Korea and fight for second place.
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Group B Teams & Overview
Group B brings together a compelling mix of home advantage, European consistency, and unpredictable underdogs, featuring Canada, Switzerland, Qatar, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
This group blends established experience with rising ambition, making it one of the most tactically intriguing sections of the tournament.
Matches will be played across major North American cities, including Toronto, Vancouver, Seattle, and Santa Clara, between June 12 and June 24, 2026.
Co-hosts Canada enter with the advantage of familiar conditions and strong home support, opening their campaign at BMO Field in Toronto.
With additional matches scheduled in Vancouver, they are strong contenders to progress beyond the group stage.
Switzerland, however, arrive as the highest-ranked side and one of the most consistent teams in international football, qualifying for their 13th World Cup.
Their tactical discipline and tournament experience make them slight favorites to top the group, although a potentially decisive clash against Canada in Vancouver could shape the final standings.
Qatar, the hosts of the 2022 edition, have shown significant improvement by topping their AFC fourth-round qualifying group and will be eager to prove themselves on the global stage away from home conditions.
Bosnia and Herzegovina complete the group after securing qualification through the UEFA play-offs, marking their return to the World Cup for the first time since 2014.
Both Qatar and Bosnia are dangerous outsiders, capable of causing major upsets and complicating the qualification race for the two favorites.
Key Players to Watch
Canada: Alphonso Davies
Switzerland: Granit Xhaka
Bosnia: Edin Džeko
Qatar: Akram Afif
Final Group B Standings Prediction
| Position | Team | Prediction |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Switzerland | Group Winners |
| 2 | Canada | Runners-up |
| 3 | Bosnia & Herzegovina | Best-third Contender |
| 4 | Qatar | Group Stage Exit |
Who Will Qualify from Group B?
- Switzerland (1st)
- Canada (2nd)
- Bosnia & Herzegovina (Best 3rd contender)
Bold Prediction: Canada vs Switzerland will decide the group winner.
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Group C Teams & Overview
Group C stands out as one of the most exciting and competitive groups, headlined by five-time champions Brazil, alongside Morocco, Scotland, and Haiti.
This diverse lineup combines global pedigree with emerging momentum, creating a group where both dominance and surprise are equally possible.
Matches will take place across key East Coast venues, including MetLife Stadium and Gillette Stadium, between June 13 and June 24, 2026.
Brazil enter as clear favorites, carrying their historic legacy as the only nation to appear in every World Cup. With a squad full of elite talent, the “Seleção” are widely expected to control the group and set the tone early.
Their opening clash against Morocco at MetLife Stadium is among the most anticipated fixtures of the group stage.
Morocco arrive with growing confidence following their remarkable fourth-place finish in 2022. The “Atlas Lions” have proven their ability to compete with elite nations and are strong contenders to secure second place.
Scotland make their long-awaited return to the World Cup for the first time since 1998—interestingly drawing Brazil and Morocco once again.
Their physical style and discipline could make them a dangerous opponent in tightly contested matches.
Haiti also return to the global stage for only their second appearance, bringing energy and unpredictability after an impressive qualifying campaign.
While Brazil are expected to lead the group, the battle for the remaining qualification spots remains wide open, with Morocco and Scotland likely to compete fiercely, and Haiti capable of producing surprise results.
This group has all the ingredients for drama, with every match potentially reshaping the qualification race.
Key Players to Watch
Brazil: Vinícius Júnior
Morocco: Achraf Hakimi
Scotland: Scott McTominay
Haiti: Derrick Etienne Jr
Final Group C Standings Prediction
| Position | Team | Prediction |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brazil | Group Winners |
| 2 | Morocco | Runners-up |
| 3 | Scotland | Round of 32 Contender |
| 4 | Haiti | Group Stage Exit |
Who Will Qualify from Group C?
- Brazil (1st)
- Morocco (2nd)
- Scotland (Best 3rd contender)
Bold Prediction: Morocco could push Brazil for top spot if they avoid defeat in the opening match.
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Group D Teams & Overview
Group D features a compelling mix of host nation pressure, returning contenders, and tactically disciplined sides, with the United States, Türkiye, Australia, and Paraguay battling for qualification.
This group stands out for its blend of experience and resurgence, as both Türkiye and Paraguay make long-awaited returns to the global stage.
Matches will be played across key West Coast venues, including SoFi Stadium and Lumen Field, between June 12 and June 25, 2026.
The United States enter as the seeded team and face the added expectation of performing on home soil. Their opening match against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium will be crucial in setting the tone for their campaign.
They are widely considered the favorites to top the group, with a talented squad and strong familiarity with playing conditions.
Türkiye pose the biggest challenge to the hosts, returning to the World Cup for the first time since their historic third-place finish in 2002. Their attacking quality and tournament experience make them serious contenders for the top spot.
Australia, known for their resilience and team cohesion, will look to build on their impressive 2022 run, where they reached the knockout stages.
Paraguay, meanwhile, return with their trademark defensive discipline and “Garra Guaraní” identity, making them a difficult opponent capable of grinding out crucial results.
While the United States and Türkiye are favorites to progress, both Australia and Paraguay have the tools to disrupt the group and compete for a best third-placed qualification spot.
Key Players to Watch
USA: Christian Pulisic
Türkiye: Arda Güler
Paraguay: Miguel Almirón
Australia: Mathew Ryan
Final Group D Standings Prediction
| Position | Team | Prediction |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | USA | Group Winners |
| 2 | Türkiye | Runners-up |
| 3 | Australia | Potential Knockout Spot |
| 4 | Paraguay | Group Stage Exi |
Who Will Qualify from Group D?
- USA (1st)
- Türkiye (2nd)
- Australia (Best 3rd contender)
Bold Prediction: Türkiye could challenge the United States for the top spot if they start strongly.
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Group E Teams & Overview
Group E is led by four-time champions Germany, alongside Ecuador, Ivory Coast, and tournament debutants Curaçao.
This group combines European pedigree, South American momentum, African strength, and fresh new energy, making it one of the most balanced groups in the tournament.
Matches will be played between June 14 and June 25, 2026, across major North American venues, including NRG Stadium and Lincoln Financial Field.
Germany enter as clear favorites to top the group under manager Julian Nagelsmann, bringing a blend of youth and experience. They begin their campaign against Curaçao in Houston, a match they are expected to control from the start.
Ecuador emerge as the group’s dark horse after an outstanding qualifying campaign, where they finished among the top teams in South America. Their pace and defensive organization could make them serious contenders for a top-two finish.
Ivory Coast arrive as reigning African champions, adding further quality and physicality to the group. Their squad depth and attacking options make them a genuine threat in the race for qualification.
Curaçao, meanwhile, make their historic World Cup debut and will look to embrace the underdog role, aiming to gain valuable experience on the global stage.
While Germany are expected to dominate, the battle for the remaining qualification spots between Ecuador and Ivory Coast could prove to be one of the most competitive contests in the group.
Key Players to Watch
Germany: Jamal Musiala
Ivory Coast: Sébastien Haller
Ecuador: Moisés Caicedo
Curaçao: Rangelo Janga
Final Group E Standings Prediction
| Position | Team | Prediction |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Germany | Group Winners |
| 2 | Ivory Coast | Runners-up |
| 3 | Ecuador | Knockout Contender |
| 4 | Curaçao | Group Stage Exit |
Who Will Qualify from Group E?
- Germany (1st)
- Ivory Coast (2nd)
- Ecuador (Best 3rd contender)
Bold Prediction: Ivory Coast will stun Germany with a draw, forcing the Germans to sweat for the top spot.
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Group F Teams & Overview
Group F brings together a competitive mix of European quality and Asian consistency, featuring the Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, and Tunisia.
This well-balanced group promises tightly contested matches, with multiple teams capable of pushing for qualification.
Fixtures will take place between June 14 and June 25, 2026, across venues in the United States and Mexico, including AT&T Stadium.
The Netherlands enter as group favorites after an impressive qualifying campaign and will be aiming to go beyond their quarterfinal finish in 2022. They open against Japan in what could prove to be one of the defining matches of the group.
Japan are widely regarded as the main challengers, having established themselves as one of the most consistent teams in international football. The “Samurai Blue” have regularly reached the knockout stages and will be determined to finally break past the Round of 16 barrier.
Sweden return to the World Cup after a dramatic UEFA play-off qualification, bringing experience and physicality that could trouble any opponent.
Tunisia, meanwhile, arrive with strong momentum after topping their CAF qualifying group and will be making their seventh World Cup appearance, adding valuable experience to the group dynamic.
While the Netherlands are expected to lead, the battle for the remaining qualification spots between Japan, Sweden, and Tunisia could be extremely close, with all three sides capable of advancing.
Key Players to Watch
Netherlands: Cody Gakpo
Japan: Takefusa Kubo
Sweden: Viktor Gyökeres
Tunisia: Ellyes Skhiri
Final Group F Standings Prediction
| Position | Team | Prediction |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Netherlands | Group Winners |
| 2 | Japan | Runners-up |
| 3 | Sweden | Round of 32 Contender |
| 4 | Tunisia | Group Stage Exit |
Who Will Qualify from Group F?
- Netherlands (1st)
- Japan (2nd)
- Sweden (Best 3rd contender)
Bold Prediction: Japan could challenge the Netherlands for the top spot.
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Group G Teams & Overview
Group G features a diverse mix of European quality, African ambition, and disciplined underdogs, with Belgium, Egypt, Iran, and New Zealand competing for qualification.
This group offers an intriguing balance of attacking talent and tactical structure, setting up several closely contested encounters.
Matches will be played between June 15 and June 26, 2026, across major West Coast venues, including Lumen Field, SoFi Stadium, and BC Place.
Belgium enter as the seeded team and clear favorites to top the group. The “Red Devils” arrive after an unbeaten qualifying campaign, showcasing both attacking depth and experience at the highest level.
Egypt are widely seen as the main challengers, coming off an impressive unbeaten run in qualifying. With a strong squad and growing confidence, they are well-positioned to compete for a top-two finish.
Iran bring consistency and tactical discipline, having regularly qualified for the World Cup and proven difficult to break down in recent tournaments.
New Zealand, known as the “All Whites,” return after winning the OFC qualifying final and will aim to make the most of their underdog status by targeting crucial points in key matches.
While Belgium are expected to lead the group, the race for the remaining qualification spots between Egypt and Iran could be tightly contested, with New Zealand capable of surprising stronger opponents.
Key Players to Watch
Belgium: Kevin De Bruyne
Egypt: Mohamed Salah
Iran: Mehdi Taremi
New Zealand: Chris Wood
Final Group G Standings Prediction
| Position | Team | Prediction |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Belgium | Group Winners |
| 2 | Egypt | Runners-up |
| 3 | Iran | Potential Qualifier |
| 4 | New Zealand | Group Stage Exit |
Who Will Qualify from Group G?
- Belgium (1st)
- Egypt (2nd)
- Iran (Best 3rd contender)
Bold Prediction: Egypt could push Belgium all the way for the top spot.
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Group H Teams & Overview
Group H features European champions Spain and South American powerhouses Uruguay, Saudi Arabia and debutant Cape Verde.
Spain enter the tournament as one of the top favourites, following their impressive win at UEFA Euro 2024.
Under manager Luis de la Fuente, “La Rosa” has evolved into a more direct and clinical version of their traditional possession style, relying on a mix of experienced maestros and explosive young talent.
The team that will challenge Spain for the top spot is Uruguay, a team defined by manager Marcelo Bielsa’s high-octane “Bielcista” style.
Uruguay have the quality to beat any team on their day, making them the clear favourites to secure the second qualifying spot, although their final group game against Spain in Guadalajara on June 26 will decide who wins the group.
The group also features Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde, both of whom face tough battles to advance.
Led by tactical mastermind Herve Renard, Saudi Arabia will attempt to repeat their 2022 upset of Argentina by using a disciplined high defensive line and attacking pressure.
Meanwhile, Cape Verde made history as the tournament’s only debuting nation.
Key Players to Watch
Spain: Lamine Yamal
Uruguay: Federico Valverde
Saudi Arabia: Salem Al-Dawsari
Cape Verde: Ryan Mendes
Final Group H Standings Prediction
| Position | Team | Prediction |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Spain | Group Winners |
| 2 | Uruguay | Runners-up |
| 3 | Saudi Arabia | Knockout Contender |
| 4 | Cape Verde | Group Stage Exit |
Who Will Qualify from Group H?
- Spain (1st)
- Uruguay (2nd)
- Saudi Arabia (Best 3rd contender)
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Group I Teams & Overview
Group I stands out as one of the tournament’s true “Groups of Death,” featuring France, Senegal, Norway, and Iraq.
Packed with world-class talent and compelling narratives, this group promises some of the most intense and high-quality matches of the group stage.
Fixtures will take place between June 16 and June 26, 2026, across key venues in the United States and Canada, including MetLife Stadium.
France enter not only as favorites to win the group but also as one of the leading contenders for the tournament title.
Their opening match against Senegal carries added significance, as it revisits the iconic 2002 clash in which Senegal shocked the defending champions in one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history.
Senegal arrive as African heavyweights, bringing experience, physicality, and a well-balanced squad capable of competing at the highest level.
Norway add further quality to the group, returning to the World Cup for the first time since 1998 after an impressive qualification campaign. With a talented squad, they are widely expected to challenge strongly for a knockout-stage spot.
Iraq complete the group after securing qualification through the inter-confederation playoffs. While they enter as underdogs, their defensive organization and resilience could make them a difficult opponent.
Although France are expected to top the group, the battle between Senegal and Norway for the remaining automatic qualification place could be one of the most competitive contests in the entire group stage.
Key Players to Watch
France: Kylian Mbappé
Norway: Erling Haaland
Senegal: Sadio Mané
Iraq: Zidane Iqbal
Final Group I Standings Prediction
| Position | Team | Prediction |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | France | Group Winners |
| 2 | Norway | Runners-up |
| 3 | Senegal | Round of 32 Contender |
| 4 | Iraq | Group Stage Exit |
Who Will Qualify from Group I?
- France (1st)
- Norway (2nd)
- Senegal (Best 3rd contender)
Bold Prediction: Senegal could edge Norway in a dramatic race for second place.
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Group J Teams & Overview
Group J features defending champions Argentina, alongside Austria, Algeria, and tournament debutants Jordan.
This group blends world-class pedigree with emerging challengers, creating an intriguing mix of experience and ambition.
Matches will be played between June 16 and June 27, 2026, across major venues in the United States, including AT&T Stadium and Levi’s Stadium.
Argentina enter as overwhelming favorites to top the group and strong contenders to retain their world title.
Under manager Lionel Scaloni, the “Albiceleste” dominated South American qualifying with consistency and attacking quality.
A key storyline surrounding Argentina is whether Lionel Messi will play a full role in what could be his sixth World Cup appearance, adding further intrigue to their campaign.
Austria emerge as the most likely challengers after an impressive qualifying run under Ralf Rangnick. Their tactical discipline and attacking efficiency make them a genuine threat to compete for the top position.
Algeria return to the World Cup with a talented and attack-minded squad, led by experienced captain Riyad Mahrez. Their individual quality could prove decisive in key moments.
Jordan make history as first-time qualifiers, arriving with confidence after a remarkable run to the AFC Asian Cup final. Their organized defensive structure and counter-attacking approach could make them difficult opponents.
While Argentina are expected to dominate the group, the fight for the remaining qualification spots could be highly competitive, particularly between Austria and Algeria.
Key Players to Watch
Argentina: Lionel Messi
Algeria: Riyad Mahrez
Austria: Marcel Sabitzer
Jordan: Musa Al-Taamari
Final Group J Standings Prediction
| Position | Team | Prediction |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Argentina | Group Winners |
| 2 | Austria | Runners-up |
| 3 | Algeria | Knockout Contender |
| 4 | Jordan | Group Stage Exit |
Who Will Qualify from Group J?
- Argentina (1st)
- Austria (2nd)
- Algeria (Best 3rd contender)
Bold Prediction: Algeria could challenge Austria for second place.
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Group K Teams & Overview
Group K features a compelling mix of European pedigree and South American flair, with Portugal, Colombia, Uzbekistan, and DR Congo competing for qualification.
This group promises high-intensity clashes, blending technical quality with physical competition.
Matches will take place between June 17 and June 27, 2026, across iconic venues including NRG Stadium, Estadio Azteca, and Hard Rock Stadium.
Portugal enter as the top-seeded side and strong favorites to advance. Under manager Roberto Martínez, the squad combines experienced leaders with technical midfield quality.
A major storyline surrounds Cristiano Ronaldo, who could be playing in his sixth and final World Cup at the age of 41, adding emotional weight and global attention to Portugal’s campaign.
Colombia emerge as the primary challengers after an impressive return to form in South American qualifying. With attacking talents like Luis Díaz and James Rodríguez, they possess the firepower to seriously challenge for top spot.
Uzbekistan make their historic World Cup debut after a strong qualifying campaign, bringing energy and unpredictability to the group.
DR Congo also return to the global stage, showcasing physicality and defensive discipline that could make them difficult opponents for the group favorites.
While Portugal are expected to lead the group, the decisive clash against Colombia could ultimately determine the final standings.
Key Players to Watch
Portugal: Cristiano Ronaldo
Luis Díaz: Colombia
Uzbekistan: Eldor Shomurodov
DR Congo: Chancel Mbemba
Final Group K Standings Prediction
| Position | Team | Prediction |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Portugal | Group Winners |
| 2 | Colombia | Runners-up |
| 3 | Uzbekistan | Potential Round of 32 Spot |
| 4 | DR Congo | Group Stage Exit |
Who Will Qualify from Group K?
- Portugal (1st)
- Colombia (2nd)
- Uzbekistan (Best 3rd contender)
Bold Prediction: Colombia could push Portugal all the way for first place.
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Group L Teams & Overview
Group L features a compelling mix of European heavyweights and emerging challengers, with England, Croatia, Ghana, and Panama battling for qualification.
This group stands out not only for its competitive balance but also for the historic return of a “Group L” format following the tournament’s expansion to 48 teams.
Matches will be played between June 17 and June 27, 2026, across major North American venues, including MetLife Stadium.
England enter as the top-seeded side and clear favorites to win the group. Under the management of Thomas Tuchel, the team is aiming to end a long wait for major international success, led by captain Harry Kane.
They begin their campaign with a high-profile rematch against Croatia, revisiting the dramatic 2018 semi-final clash that saw Croatia eliminate England.
Croatia remain a formidable opponent, continuing their tradition of exceeding expectations on the world stage with disciplined performances and experienced leadership.
Ghana bring youthful energy and attacking flair, with standout talents like Mohamed Kudus capable of influencing key matches.
Panama complete the group as determined underdogs, returning for their second World Cup appearance and aiming to build on their previous experience.
While England are expected to top the group, the contest for the remaining qualification spots could be tightly fought, particularly between Croatia and Ghana.
Key Players to Watch
England: Harry Kane
Croatia: Luka Modrić
Ghana: Mohammed Kudus
Panama: Michael Amir Murillo
Final Group L Standings Prediction
| Position | Team | Prediction |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | England | Group Winners |
| 2 | Croatia | Runners-up |
| 3 | Ghana | Knockout Contender |
| 4 | Panama | Group Stage Exit |
Who Will Qualify from Group L?
- England (1st)
- Croatia (2nd)
- Ghana (Best 3rd contender)
Bold Prediction: Ghana could challenge Croatia for second place.
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Best Third-Placed Teams Predictions
Under the 48-team format, 8 out of 12 third-place finishers will advance.
- Sweden (Group F)
- Senegal (Group I)
- Scotland (Group C)
- Ivory Coast (Group E)
- Czech Republic (Group A)
- Bosnia & Herzegovina (Group B)
- Ghana (Group L)
- Algeria (Group J)
Most Exciting Matches in Group Stage
These fixtures could define the tournament’s early narrative.
- Brazil vs Morocco (Group C)
- Spain vs Uruguay (Group H)
- Argentina vs Algeria (Group J)
- England vs Croatia (Group L)
- Netherlands vs Japan (Group F)
FAQ: World Cup 2026 Predictions
How many teams qualify from each group?
The top two teams from each of the 12 groups automatically qualify for the knockout stage.
Can third-place teams qualify?
Yes. Because the tournament has expanded to 12 groups, the eight best third-place teams will also advance to the new Round of 32.
The 2026 World Cup is set to deliver fireworks—stay tuned for updates as friendlies and squads finalize.
