Chris Sutton, Mexico, South Africa, England
10 June 2026
Chris Sutton has issued predictions for the opening round of World Cup group matches, backing Mexico to edge South Africa, England to beat Croatia and several favourites to start carefully in difficult conditions across North America.
His predictions highlight home advantage, heat, ageing squads, defensive records and tactical caution as early tournament factors. Sutton also tipped possible awkward openers for the United States, France, Portugal and Argentina against physically demanding or organised opponents.