Beloous Criticizes 2026 World Cup Format and Discusses Group Stages

The former Vice President of Moscow's Lokomotiv football club, Yuri Belous, shared his opinion on the format of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He noted that it is already possible to predict which teams will advance to the playoffs even before the group stage matches begin.

"Yes, I have noticed: the number of participating teams has greatly increased. Now, it’s impossible to use the phrase 'group of death.'

Because there are several national teams in the groups that do not influence the overall level of football. Therefore, it is already clear which teams will likely advance from the group stage," said Belous.

It should be recalled that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be held for the first time in three countries — the United States, Mexico, and Canada. A record number of 48 national teams will participate in the tournament.

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