Norway have an obvious reference point in Erling Haaland, who stands at 195cm yet retains the mobility to threaten beyond the penalty area. Their squad’s size offers an advantage at both ends, particularly when games become decided by corners, free-kicks and second balls.
The Czech Republic provide an even clearer example of deliberate physical selection. Their 26-man squad contains 10 players above 190cm, more than any other team at the tournament. Their overall average of 185.7cm ranks just behind Belgium, but the number of tall options gives the coaching staff greater flexibility for aerial match-ups.
At the individual extreme, Austria goalkeeper Florian Wiegele is listed at 205cm. That reach can alter how opponents attack crosses, even before his handling and positioning are considered.
Height only becomes decisive when it is converted into repeatable attacking patterns. Arsenal scored 25 non-penalty goals from dead-ball situations during their title-winning Premier League campaign, underlining how delivery, movement and blocking can turn physical strength into points.
With several Arsenal players forming part of England’s World Cup group, that emphasis could carry into the international game. England’s set-piece threat is likely to influence how opponents defend corners, especially if Arsenal’s routines and aerial profiles remain central to selection.
The shortest squads and players offer a useful counterpoint. Panama’s Cesar Yanis is listed at 160cm, while Saudi Arabia’s lower average reflects a different physical profile. Smaller teams can compensate through speed, combinations and defensive compactness, but they may face greater pressure defending high deliveries.
The next storyline will come when the tournament’s first knockout matches test whether height creates sustained advantages-or merely provides another weapon within a broader tactical plan.