The UEFA World Cup Qualifiers are underway. Here are the standout storylines.
Ronaldo Still Has It
The player who appears immune to slowing down. Two goals, eight shots and a 100% pass completion rate – Ronaldo continues to be Portugal’s focal point. He might be on the wrong side of 40, but CR7 will still be a decisive player at the 2026 World Cup on his hunt for 1,000 goals.
Spain Big Favourites
Nine goals scored and zero conceded over their two Group E qualifiers, Spain are in imperious form. Their midfield depth and balance is unmatched; Merino, Zubimendi and Pedri offer everything. Add in Rodri and Fabian Ruiz, and no other midfield comes close. The World Cup is Spain’s to lose.
Mbappé is Inevitable
Kylian Mbappé proved once again he is the best player in the world. His stunning solo goal confirmed the three points against a resolute Ukraine. Mbappé is now level with Thierry Henry as France’s second all-time goalscorer, just six behind Olivier Giroud. WIth five qualifiers left, expect to see Mbappé enter next year’s tournament already established as France’s greatest goalscorer. Another World Cup triumph would secure his claim as their greatest player.
PSG and Deschamps Rift Deepens
The relationship between France’s national team and their dominant domestic team has never been worse. Ousmane Dembélé and Désiré Doué both picked up injuries that PSG asserted were avoidable, claiming their medical advice was ignored by Deschamps. With PSG starting their Champions League defence next week, both players are set to miss out. France will need a harmonious dressing room for 2026 should they have a chance of competing; a repeat of the 2010 player revolt is the last thing they need.
Not Clicking for Germany
The 2-0 defeat to Slovakia was Germany’s third consecutive loss. Whilst they were able to break the streak with a 3-1 victory over Northern Ireland, Nagelsmann’s men are not looking convincing. They do not yet have a settled system, switching between a 3-4-2-1 and 4-2-3-1. The back three of Rudiger, Anton and Koch looked more solid and convincing than the back four deployed against Slovakia. Never write off Germany in tournaments, but at the moment they look off the pace.
England Missing Grealish
Thomas Tuchel’s England are dominating possession and looking well-organised, but lack invention. Injuries to Bellingham, Saka and Palmer haven’t helped, but the missing piece is Jack Grealish. He is the creative force needed to unpick stubborn defences and to feed Harry Kane. His resurgence at Everton is coming at the right time for England.
Messi Finishes On Top
Lionel Messi scored twice on what is expected to be his last competitive match on home soil. Argentina’s most-capped player has not yet publicly stated whether he intends to play in the 2026 World Cup, but his goals have helped secure Argentina’s place at the finals.
South American Giants on Form
Argentina, Colombia, Uruguay and Brazil all secured 3-0 victories at home in the CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers. The big four have already qualified for next year’s tournament, alongside Ecuador and Paraguay. With one round of CONMEBOL qualifiers to go, either Venezuela or Bolivia will enter the intercontinental playoff.
