GUADALAJARA, Mexico (AP) — It’s number-crunching time when it comes to formations at the World Cup. Every team starts with a goalkeeper in front of the net, but then it’s up to the 48 coaches to try to arrange their lineups to optimize their players and match up effectively with opponents.

All 48 teams at the World Cup have now played once. BBC Sport's experts have ranked them all, from best to worst. Who is top? Not defending champions Argentina.

The obsession was rewarded in Kansas City as the team made opened its World Cup defense, defeating Algeria 3-0. Scoring all three of those goals was the legendary Lionel Messi who, turning 39 next week, could be playing in his last World Cup.

The U.S. men's national team begins World Cup play hoping its defense can find its footing in time for it's opening game against Paraguay on June 12.

Cristiano Ronaldo looks to make history by becoming the first player to score a goal in six World Cups when Portugal meets Congo on Wednesday

Cristiano Ronaldo has once again etched his name into football history, achieving another remarkable milestone during the FIFA World Cup 2026. The Portuguese superstar broke a long-standing record by becoming the oldest outfield player ever to start a men's FIFA World Cup match.