The countdown to the World Cup continues, and fewer than 100 days remain before the tournament kicks off across the United States, Mexico and Canada. As hosts, the three nations are among the 42 teams already qualified, while the final eight spots are still up for grabs.

While the remaining tickets are decided, 22 teams will compete in various playoff rounds – both in UEFA and in the intercontinental playoffs – with 16 European sides and six others seeking to join the teams that have already secured qualification.

With the World Cup now firmly on the horizon, the outlet The Score released its latest power rankings, evaluating the 42 teams already qualified along with the 22 still fighting for a playoff berth. The ranking aims to gauge each national team’s current strength and its potential prospects heading into the tournament this summer.

According to the list, Spain, France and Argentina stand as the three leading favorites to win the title. The ranking is based largely on each national team’s current form and the overall quality of their squads, placing the trio at the top of the early predictions.

The power ranking also assessed the outlook for teams from the CONCACAF region. Among them, the United States is seen as having the strongest chance to make a deep run at the World Cup. The Score noted: “The United States benefited from the most favorable draw of any team in the tournament, giving them a great opportunity to succeed at home.” As a result, Team USA sits in 15th place among the 64 teams in the ranking.

Canada placed above Mexico in the ranking

Behind the United States, Canada holds the No. 24 spot in the power rankings released with 100 days to go before the tournament. The Score highlighted that the Maple Leaf squad will be chasing its first-ever victory at a World Cup, pointing to Jesse Marsch on the bench and stars such as Alphonso Davies as key figures in the roster.

Just below Canada appears Mexico, the third host nation, which sits one spot lower at No. 27 in the ranking – despite being ranked 16th in the world by FIFA.

Panama just behind Mexico

In what will be its second World Cup appearance, Panama will attempt to improve on its performance at the 2018 tournament. The ranking points to experienced players such as Michael Murillo and Aníbal Godoy as key leaders for the Canaleros, who are coached by Thomas Christiansen. Panama comes in at No. 42 on the list.

Other CONCACAF teams in the power rankings

Jamaica, still fighting for a place through the intercontinental playoff, is ranked No. 53. The Reggae Boyz are rated higher than both Curaçao and Haiti, two teams that have already qualified but are widely viewed as likely early exits. Curaçao sits at No. 61 in the ranking, while Haiti occupies the No. 62 spot.

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