Spain or Argentina, who will win the FIFA World Cup? Ex-player predictions
Former players and analysts are weighing in on the 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina. Statistics provider Opta favors Spain with a 59.56 percent probability of winning, a view shared by several former international players including Michael Owen and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, though some analysts believe Argentina's resilience could pose a challenge.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup final will pit Spain, the reigning European champions, against Argentina, the defending World Cup holders. This matchup marks the first time these continental powerhouses will meet in a World Cup final. Spain seeks their second world title, having won their first in South Africa in 2010, while Argentina aims to become only the third nation to claim consecutive World Cup victories.
Statistical analysis from Opta positions Spain as clear favorites, assigning them a 59.56 percent probability of lifting the trophy in New Jersey. This assessment aligns with predictions from numerous former players and football analysts. Michael Owen, the former England striker, described Spain as "deserved" winners, praising their collective play and technical confidence with the ball. Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who played for Sweden at two World Cups and now works as a pundit for Fox Sports, similarly expects Spain to dominate, noting their strong performance against France in the semifinals and their cohesive team structure.
Former England captain John Terry also favored Spain, suggesting Luis de la Fuente's squad possesses superior capability. Iker Casillas, who captained Spain during their 2010 World Cup victory, expressed confidence in the team's prospects for a second title. However, not all analysts dismiss Argentina's chances entirely. Alan Shearer acknowledged the reigning champions' mental strength and ability to overcome adversity, while Micah Richards suggested Argentina could employ a low-block defensive transition strategy to counter Spain's possession-based approach.
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