Mexico benefits from co-host status and a favorable schedule that includes two group matches at the iconic Estadio Azteca, positioning the side as the clear favorite to top Group A. Recent fixture confirmations have reinforced expectations around home-soil momentum and squad depth for the opening match against South Africa. Czechia sits second on the strength of recent European qualifying form and a balanced roster, while South Korea trails slightly due to inconsistent results in recent friendlies and tougher historical World Cup showings. South Africa remains the longest shot as the lowest-ranked side in the group, though its athletic profile offers limited upset potential in a compact four-team section.