World Cup Predictions for 7/5/26

Brazil vs Norway 

Score Prediction: Brazil 3, Norway 1

 

This is easily the best match day of the tournament thus far, and it just so happens to feature my biggest spot of conviction we’ve had as well. This run of play from Norway has been amazing to watch – from the fan base to their star Erling Haaland, you can’t help but like and root for this team. Ultimately, as we progress through the tournament weaknesses are going to get exposed and I think this is the spot for it to happen. Norway has arguably the worst defense remaining the tournament conceding over 5.0 xG thus far. While they are insane going forward, they can’t hope to just outscore every opponent. They line up in a 4-4-2 and will likely try to push Brazil wide but that plays into Brazil’s strengths. The fullbacks have been the big glaring weakness for Brazil – having conceded 5 total goals to Ismaile Sarr and Ousmane Dembele – both of which play on the right wing. We should see Rayan start on the right for Brazil, so look for him to have a good game but make no mistakes they are going to funnel everything through Vini Jr in this game. They have been cooked in 1v1 situations and I think Brazil is going to have no issues creating chances this afternoon. Their offense has been great, and they have created as much xG of anyone remaining. Brazil’s defense can struggle with the counter, which is why I think we do see Norway find the back of the net as well. With no Raphina they have been a bit sloppy with turnovers - which is how Japan was able to jump on them with a quick goal in their last match. Overall though, I don’t fear Norway like I do a very organized and technical Japanese side – at least stylistically.  Carlo Ancelotti has worked wonders for this side and I really believe we will see Brazil dancing their way to the final in this tournament. 

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England vs Mexico 

Score Prediction: England 1, Mexico 1 – Mexico advances in PKs

 

We finish the night off with a game that just screams classic. England vs Mexico at one of the best venues in the world for a match – Estadio Azteca. If you watched my World Cup bracket preview video I had this spot circled immediately. I’ve said all along this tournament was set up for Mexico to have a big run, so that FIFA could properly showcase this venue and atmosphere in a big game exactly like this one. I also noted how hard the path was for England, should they advance – a date with Brazil or Norway awaits in hot and humid Miami. I don’t like to overrate narrative-driven analysis but you would be foolish to overlook this crowd and Mexico’s history in this stadium having an impact on this match. The quality of opponents is worth scrutiny, but losing just two of 89 matches here is overly impressive. England has big game experience, much more than this Mexican side but this team has grown in confidence with each match and they’ve really found something with Gilberto Mora who has been one of the most impressive young players at this tournament. Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham look in top form, and they’re once again going to have to carry the load for the Three Lions. This match screams extra time to me – I have no strong feeling about either side advancing, but I would be surprised if we saw a late winner in regulation in this one. I’m expecting a draw, but it’s certain to be a memorable match regardless of outcome tonight.