Mbappe, Haaland and Mane to face each other in the Group of Death?

The 2026 FIFA World Cup draw has produced what many are calling the tournament’s most challenging group, with two-time champions France, Erling Haaland-led Norway and African powerhouse Senegal placed together in Group I.

The fourth spot in the group will be filled by the winner of FIFA Play-off 2 involving Iraq, Bolivia or Suriname.

France, winners in 2018 and runners-up in 2022, boast a star-studded squad featuring Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Jules Kounde, Ibrahima Konate and Malo Gusto under coach Didier Deschamps.

Norway, returning to the World Cup for the first time in 28 years after topping their qualifying group with a perfect eight wins from eight matches, including a 4-1 victory over Italy, will rely on Haaland, Martin Odegaard, Oscar Bobb, Alexander Sorloth and Sander Berge. The Scandinavians have won nine of their last ten matches.

Senegal, who topped Africa’s Group B to qualify directly, remain a formidable force with Sadio Mane (Al-Nassr), Nicolas Jackson (Bayern Munich) and Ismaila Sarr (Crystal Palace) in their ranks.

The glittering two-hour draw ceremony was held at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington DC on Friday night. Former England defender Rio Ferdinand hosted the event alongside renowned presenter Samantha Johnson.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino delivered the opening address, while the prime ministers of co-hosts United States, Canada and Mexico were among the dignitaries present.

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti attended with his wife, accompanied by Brazilian legends Roberto Carlos, Ricardo Kaka and Ronaldo. Supermodel Heidi Klum, comedian Kevin Hart and actor Danny Ramirez also took part in the proceedings.

Group I: France, Senegal, Norway, FIFA Play-off 2 winner (Iraq/Bolivia/Suriname)