Group I World Cup 2026 Preview: Switzerland, Denmark, Türkiye and Tunisia

Group I might be the most underrated group in the entire tournament. Four sides that none of the traditional powers would want to face, in a group where any two of the four could legitimately qualify.

Switzerland: The Eternal Dark Horse

Switzerland have qualified for every World Cup and major tournament for over a decade and consistently overperformed. In 2022, they eliminated France in the Round of 16 on penalties — one of the tournament's biggest upsets. In 2018, they drew with Brazil.

The Swiss model is precision. Technically excellent, tactically disciplined, physically robust. Granit Xhaka provides the midfield foundation. Xherdan Shaqiri, when fit and motivated, can be the difference-maker. Coach Murat Yakin has continued the work that made Switzerland reliable tournament performers.

They rarely make the semi-finals. But they are almost never eliminated early.

Denmark: Collective Excellence

Denmark's modern football story is one of collective brilliance. Their 2020 European Championship run — overcoming Christian Eriksen's cardiac arrest to reach the semi-finals — is one of sport's most remarkable stories.

The current Danish squad plays some of the most organised and attractive football in international football. Christian Eriksen, back to his brilliant best, orchestrates a team that presses hard, defends well, and scores from multiple positions.

Türkiye: The Rising Power

Türkiye's national team has undergone a genuine evolution. Hakan Çalhanoğlu leads a squad with Champions League quality throughout. Their 2024 European Championship performance signalled that Turkish football is entering a new era.

Tunisia: African Pride

Tunisia carry the hopes of North African football. Organised, physical, with players increasingly based in Europe's top leagues.

The Group I Story

Switzerland and Denmark are the favourites to progress, but both Türkiye and Tunisia have the quality to cause an upset. No team in this group can afford a bad day.

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