2026 World Cup group stage predictions: New format & new rules
By Deniss Novickis | Published: June 14, 2026, 08:52
Four-time World Cup champions Germany start their campaign against Curaçao, who qualified for the first time. The Netherlands will meet Japan in what’s likely to be the game for top spot in Group F, but the other two matches should be no less spectacular. MightyTips comes back with a World Cup value bet of the day and a risky parlay of the day, shares a prediction on all games of the Matchday, and gives away some interesting facts about the tournament.

Match 10: Germany - Curaçao, 19:00 CET, June 14
Match 11: Netherlands - Japan, 22:00 CET, June 14
Match 9: Ivory Coast - Ecuador, 01:00 CET, June 15
Match 12: Sweden - Tunisia, 04:00 CET, June 15
While Tunisia will participate in the third World Cup in a row, they have never gone past the group stage. The Tunisians won just one of their last seven matches, a 1-0 victory over Haiti, and didn’t score in the previous three games. Sweden impressed in the qualification play-offs, and they are simply a stronger team. I just can’t see the African side stopping the likes of Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyökeres. Sweden to win at 1.90 is a very good option.
Germany play their first match against a Curaçao side eager to frustrate one of the tournament favourites. The key tactical battle could be Germany’s patient possession game against a compact defensive block, with the Europeans expected to dominate the ball and look for openings through quick combinations in the final third. Curaçao’s ability to stay organized and transition quickly on the counter will be crucial. Germany’s squad depth also offers plenty of intrigue, with competition for places across midfield and attack. Set pieces may prove important, especially if Curaçao can limit space in open play and force Germany into a more direct approach.
This matchup brings together two technically gifted sides with contrasting styles. The Netherlands are likely to rely on their physical presence, structured buildup and attacking width, while Japan’s movement, pressing and quick passing combinations could create problems between the lines. Midfield control will be a major storyline, as both teams possess players capable of dictating tempo. Japan’s defensive organization against Dutch wing play will be worth watching, while the Netherlands must remain alert to Japan’s rapid transitions.
This promises to be one of the most balanced contests of the day, featuring two athletic and well-organized teams. Ivory Coast’s physicality and pace in wide areas will test Ecuador’s defensive discipline. Ecuador will look to use their energy in midfield to disrupt rhythm and win second balls. The battle in central areas may determine which side gains territorial control. Both teams have players capable of turning defence into attack quickly, making transitions a key aspect of the game. Set pieces are another area to monitor, with aerial strength available on both sides of the pitch.
Sweden and Tunisia meet in a contest that could place a premium on discipline and structure. Sweden traditionally rely on organization, aerial strength and efficient use of possession, and Tunisia often bring intensity, compact defending and quick attacking transitions. The duel between Sweden’s physical forwards and Tunisia’s back line could shape the match, particularly from crosses and set-piece situations. Tunisia’s ability to break lines through midfield will also be important against a Swedish side that typically maintains strong defensive spacing. Squad selection may provide clues about each team’s approach, whether prioritizing control or greater attacking ambition.

Neuer remains one of the defining goalkeepers of his generation. The German veteran, now 40 years old, famously helped Germany win the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, where he also claimed the Golden Glove award as the tournament’s best keeper. After announcing his international retirement following EURO 2024, Neuer made a surprise return ahead of the 2026 World Cup, being recalled by head coach Julian Nagelsmann. He has earned 124 caps for Germany, placing him among the nation’s most-capped players. Neuer also holds the record for most EURO appearances by a goalkeeper and ranks among the most experienced goalkeepers in World Cup history.
🚨A fan is going viral for using a flask disguised as a phone to sneak tequila into Azteca Stadium 😳
— Polymarket Sports (@PolymarketSport) June 13, 2026
pic.twitter.com/DZFqBveIoL
Germany’s 7-1 victory over Brazil in the 2014 World Cup remains the highest-scoring semi-final in the tournament’s history. The Germans scored five goals in the first 29 minutes, with Miroslav Klose netting his record-breaking 16th World Cup goal to become the tournament’s all-time leading scorer. As Germany begin another World Cup campaign on June 14, one of the most famous matches in football history remains a benchmark for excellence and attacking efficiency.
Germany 7-1 Brazil, when Germany defeated the 2014 World Cup host.
A historic defeat often referred to as the Mineirazo. A day Brazil football will NEVER forget. pic.twitter.com/4NLAQN3ulZ
— Paa Manuel (@PaamanuelUtd_) June 13, 2026
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