The best 2026 FIFA World Cup prediction was chaos.
The ongoing competition has already left its mark on countries, fans, and spectators alike. A mix of unpredictable results, historic moments — for better and worse —, and the birth of national heroes defined the first week of the tournament.
The USA, one of three host nations, turned in, arguably, the best performance yet, and they’re back up to headline Friday’s schedule of matches.
Eight teams will take the pitch today for the second of three times in the Group Stage. We took the liberty of gauging World Cup prediction markets to preview and pick the best options for the upcoming matches.
USA vs. Australia Prediction
The USA blended physical preparedness, tactical fluidity, and ruthless finishing in front of the net with a generally calm demeanor in its 4-1 win over Paraguay. Mauricio Pochettino appears to have instilled real belief in this group, which only made it to the Round of 16 at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The trick now is determining if that performance was an outlier or the standard.
Australia flattered itself with a 2-0 win over Türkiye, despite generating fewer expected goals (1.18-1.36) and only seeing a sliver of possession (28-72%). The Pacific nation attacked with blistering intent in transition, but did not control the match otherwise. The USA’s aggression in the midfield and chance creation give them a great chance of winning.
Trade Handle USA vs. Australia prediction: USA to win ($.62 at Kalshi)
USA vs. Australia: How to Watch
Kickoff: 3:00 p.m. ET
TV: FOX, FOX One, Telemundo
Location: Lumen Field, Seattle, WA
Scotland vs. Morocco Prediction
Brazil never had a chance against Morocco because of its poor tactical setup in the midfield and failure to cope with the pressure they invited. However, Golden Boot competitor Vinicius Junior rescued them with a point and a goal that was basically out of nothing. That type of individual brilliance is what defines a Brazilian team that is experienced and talented.
Haiti gave it a real go against Scotland, but still didn’t come away with a point. They should have a much tougher time against Brazil, which has extreme speed and flair, and loves to create space to go one-on-one on the flanks. Taking the Brazilians feels like the best option.
Trade Handle Brazil vs. Haiti prediction: Brazil to win ($.89 at Kalshi)
Brazil vs. Haiti: How to Watch
Kickoff: 8:30 p.m. ET
TV: FOX, FOX One, Telemundo
Location: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA
Türkiye vs. Paraguay Prediction
Türkiye might’ve won more areas of the game than Australia did, but all that mattered was that they conceded twice and didn’t score. That ended a four-game winning streak, which was preceded by a 2-2 draw with the reigning European champions, Spain. The Turkish side wants to get its foot on the ball and allow its midfielders to create opportunities, but they need someone to finish their attacks.
Paraguay appeared totally overwhelmed by the USA in their opening-match bashing last week. They often prefer to defend in a low block and hit on the counterattack, which could work against a Turkish team that likes to have possession of the ball. We could see any outcome, but aren’t sold that Turkey is the rightful favorite in World Cup prediction markets.
Trade Handle Türkiye vs. Paraguay prediction: Turkey not to win ($.52 at Kalshi)
Türkiye vs. Paraguay: How to Watch
Kickoff: 11:00 p.m. ET
TV: FOX, FOX One, Telemundo
Location: Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CA