BBC Sport’s panel has graded every of the 48 World Cup entrants after their opening matches, placing France at the summit following a 3‑1 demolition of Senegal. England sit second after a 4‑2 victory over Croatia, while Argentina, despite a 3‑0 win against Algeria, drop to third. The rankings reflect each side’s performance, not pre‑tournament reputation.

Germany rockets to fourth after a 7‑1 thrashing of Curaçao, a result that overshadows the opposition’s quality. The United States leap into the top five with a 4‑1 demolition of Paraguay, energising the host nation’s supporters. Norway, built around Erling Haaland, claim seventh spot after a 4‑1 win over Iraq, highlighting their attacking focus.

Morocco’s 1‑1 draw with Brazil lands them ninth, showing they could have turned the game in the first half. Brazil, also ninth, disappoint with a shaky start but salvage a point. Lower‑ranked sides such as Curacao finish bottom after a 7‑1 loss, while teams like Spain and Belgium settle for mid‑table draws, underscoring the tournament’s unpredictable opening day.

Overall, the panel’s hierarchy rewards attacking firepower and defensive solidity, leaving traditional powers such as Italy and Portugal outside the top ten after modest openings. Fans and analysts will dissect these early rankings as the group stage unfolds, but the initial data already signals which squads possess genuine momentum.