ESPN's Ryan O'Hanlon has taken on the ambitious task of predicting every game of the 2026 World Cup, skipping only the third-place playoff for sanity's sake. The expanded 48-team format brings 104 matches to the tournament, making this prediction exercise more complex than ever before. O'Hanlon uses DTAI Analytics Lab data as his baseline, which has historically outperformed bookmaker odds in previous World Cups.

Group A shapes up as a Mexico coronation, with the hosts holding a significant advantage playing every match on home soil. Their Elo rating of 1800 ranks 14th among all participants, giving them a 95% chance to advance. South Korea follows as the likely second qualifier. The predictions show Mexico winning twice and drawing once to top the group with seven points.

Group B presents a fascinating subplot with co-hosts Canada getting favorable positioning against two of the tournament's weakest teams. Manager Jesse Marsch's pressing system should create chances, though their defensive vulnerabilities remain concerning. Switzerland emerges as group winners in a tiebreaker scenario over Canada, with both teams finishing on seven points.

Group C features a stunning upset pick, with Morocco defeating Brazil 1-0 in the opening match. The Atlas Lions' defensive solidity and AFCON title make them legitimate contenders despite Brazil's historical pedigree. Morocco advances as group winners with seven points, while Brazil limps through with six points in what could be a significant early shock.