Winning FIFA World Cup group takes a backseat to getting ready for the knockout stage for some teams

FFIA World Cup 2026: Coaches at the football tournament are shifting strategies, prioritizing player rest and injury prevention over group stage dominance. Norway, without star Haaland, lost to France but focused on a longer tournament run. Portugal's Martinez aims for wins, while Colombia's Lorenzo considers opponent matchups. Spain's de la Fuente emphasizes winning every game to prepare for eventual tough opponents.