Opening-Day Power Rankings: South Korea Leads, South Africa Plummets at 2026 World Cup

After the opening matches of the 2026 World Cup, South Korea tops the first power rankings while South Africa sits last. The system scores teams on match result, goal metrics, opponent quality, and discipline. South Korea claimed a 2-1 win over higher-ranked Czech Republic and earned maximum points for tactical efficiency and minimal cards. Mexico’s 2-0 victory against South Africa secures second place despite losing points for a red card. Czech Republic follows in third with a clean disciplinary record despite a narrow defeat. South Africa falls to the bottom after a 2-0 loss and two red cards. The Power Performance Score rewards disciplined underdogs and penalises indiscipline. Rankings will be updated after each matchday.

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