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[MyDaily = Reporter Kim Geon-ho] The world’s biggest soccer celebration, the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) World Cup, is almost here. The 2026 North American World Cup debuts a 48-team format, putting the tournament to a new test. Over 39 days, 108 matches will be contested — the largest World Cup in history. Coached by Hong Myung-bo, South Korea will make its 11th consecutive World Cup appearance. With many calling this Korea’s strongest-ever squad, the team is preparing to face world-class opposition. 「Editor’s note」
◆ Group-stage analysis — Group F
Group F is widely considered the tournament’s “group of death.” European heavyweight the Netherlands anchors the group, Japan has been on an upward trajectory, and Sweden’s Viking squad is no pushover. Tunisia is viewed as the potential dark horse but looks likely to face a tough fight to advance.
Reporter Shim Jae-hee → Predicted to advance: Netherlands, Japan
Group F is the toughest grouping in the draw. The Netherlands and Sweden provide strong European competition, while Japan — coming off big wins over top teams — and Tunisia, a potential African dark horse, will push for knockout spots. I expect the Netherlands, with its high-end talent, and Japan, known for tight team structure, to battle for first place. Japan will need to cover the absences of attacking and midfield sparks Kaoru Mitoma (Brighton & Hove Albion) and Takumi Minamino (AS Monaco).
Reporter Kim Jong-guk → Predicted to advance: Netherlands, Japan
The Netherlands is the clear favorite to top the group, though how effective its attack will be remains the big question. Their defensive spine — featuring Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool) and Micky van de Ven (Tottenham Hotspur) — is a major strength. Japan can threaten the Dutch: at the 2022 Qatar World Cup they upset Germany and Spain, they came from behind to beat Brazil last year, and they recently beat England on the road. Except for Yuto Nagatomo (FC Tokyo), Japan’s outfield players are Europe-based, and the squad has quality depth across positions. Under coach Hajime Moriyasu, who led them in Qatar, the team’s cohesion has improved. Sweden, which scraped through the playoffs after a lackluster European qualifying campaign, could struggle. Tunisia will likely find it difficult to advance from this group.
Reporter Kim Geon-ho → Predicted to advance: Netherlands, Japan
The Netherlands is built around players who compete in Europe’s top leagues, so advancing to the knockout rounds should be straightforward. Japan pulled off major upsets in Qatar by beating Germany and Spain and has continued to improve; they should make the round of 32. Still, Sweden remains a dangerous opponent, and Tunisia will face a challenging group stage.
Reporter Choi Byung-jin → Predicted to advance: Netherlands, Japan
This is one of the tournament’s most brutal groups. The Netherlands, among Europe’s elite, has the edge, but expect a fierce battle. Japan’s organization is a clear advantage, while Tunisia prides itself on solid defense. Sweden brings typical European physicality and forwards like Viktor Gyökeres (Arsenal) and Alexander Isak (Liverpool). Each team must maximize its strengths to advance.
Reporter Noh Chan-hyuk → Predicted to advance: Japan, Netherlands
I have Japan finishing top thanks to its consistent organization. In Qatar, Japan topped a group that included Spain and Germany. All but one of Japan’s outfield players play in Europe. The Netherlands, with a deep, high-quality roster, should take second. Sweden’s potent attack could challenge for that spot. Tunisia defends well but falls short on overall talent.
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