ESPN’s first‑week World Cup Power Rankings put France on top after a 3‑1 win over Senegal. Mbappé’s two second‑half goals made him France’s all‑time men’s scorer, while Lionel Messi matched Klose’s record with a hat‑trick for Argentina. Australia’s 2‑1 upset of Türkiye also drew notice, highlighting the tournament’s early drama.

England jumps to second after a 4‑2 demolition of Croatia, with Harry Kane’s brace and Jude Bellingham’s early strike sparking optimism despite squad absences. Argentina holds third, buoyed by Messi’s three goals, while Spain slips to fifth following a goalless draw with Cape Verde. Germany climbs to fifth after a 7‑1 rout of Curaçao.

The early rankings reward teams that delivered decisive starts and penalize those stumbling out of the gate. With group matches remaining on June 22‑26, a single result could reshuffle the top five. ESPN will release an updated Power Ranking after the second round, confirming which early favorites remain credible.

Group leaders now face tougher tests: France meets Norway, England travels to Ghana, and Argentina hosts Austria. Germany’s attacking display positions them as a dark horse, while Spain must rediscover form against Saudi Arabia. Fans will gauge whether early rankings foreshadow the tournament’s eventual champion.