Former England manager Gareth Southgate has issued an early warning ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw, revealing three nations the Three Lions would be better off avoiding when the balls drop on Friday night.

England sailed through their qualification campaign flawlessly — perfect wins, zero goals conceded, and a calm walk into the tournament. While many insisted their qualifying group was too comfortable, Southgate believes the real test begins now.

Speaking ahead of the draw, the ex-England boss picked out Japan, Colombia, and Scotland as the most dangerous teams England could face in the group stages.

“I think someone like Japan would be a very tough game,” Southgate admitted, acknowledging the impressive progress of the Asian football powerhouse.

He also highlighted Colombia — not because England can’t beat them, but because of the intimidating wave of passionate support Los Cafeteros take everywhere.

“If you’re thinking about the amount of Colombians that will go to those games in the States or Mexico, what an atmosphere that will be!”

But perhaps the one warning that hits closest to home is Scotland — England’s long-time neighbours, rivals and footballing thorn.

“We’ve had a pretty good record against Scotland, but there’s always that thing that if you lose to Scotland, Dalglish, Souness and Sir Alex Ferguson will be going on about it for decades!”

📝 Opinion Corner: Safe Route or Champions' Courage?

Southgate makes valid points.
Japan are fast, fearless and technically gifted — they’ve humbled European giants before.
Colombia will bring noise, pressure and emotion — a stadium filled with yellow shirts can feel like an away game even on neutral soil.
And Scotland… well, history and pride make that fixture more than just football — it becomes a national battle.

But here’s the twist: If England truly want to be champions, they cannot fear these teams.

The greatest nations don’t pray for easy draws — they sharpen their claws through early tests. Facing teams like Japan or Colombia could give England the fire they often lack until knockout rounds. And imagine the electricity of a World Cup clash against Scotland on North American soil — the drama, the headlines, the bragging rights!

So yes, Southgate is right to highlight the risks. But readers and fans may agree: England shouldn’t avoid challenges — they should chase them.
After all, if you want to bring football home… you must be ready to fight anyone who stands at the door.