Will Antoine Griezmann make it to the 2026 World Cup with France? We analyze statistics, current events, and his role with Les Bleus on their way to the most important tournament on the planet.
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WHICH TEAMS ARE THE FAVORITES TO WIN THE 2026 WORLD CUP TITLE?
Who are the favorites for the 2026 World Cup? In this article, we review the teams with the best chances of lifting the trophy, the star players who lead them, and some surprising facts. From historic champions to dark horses no one saw coming, things are about to get interesting.
Historical Favorites That Never Fail
When talking about favorites to win the World Cup, there are names that are always mentioned. Brazil, Argentina, France, and Germany not only have history but also a strong present. No matter which group they're in or how difficult the matchup is, they always arrive as contenders.
Brazil, with its five titles, is looking for revenge after the failure in Qatar 2022. They come with a young generation led by Vinícius Jr., Rodrygo, and Endrick. Under Dorival Júnior's leadership, the "Scratch" boasts an average possession of 62% and a defense that has conceded only 4 goals in 10 qualifying matches. Argentina and France: A Clash of Titans. Argentina arrives as world champions, with Lionel Messi in what could be his last World Cup and a solid core that blends youth (Garnacho, Enzo Fernández) and experience (Dibu Martínez, De Paul). La Calera maintains a streak of over 30 matches unbeaten since 2022. France, meanwhile, has the most valuable squad in the tournament (according to Transfermarkt) with stars like Mbappé, Tchouaméni, and Griezmann. They've just played in two consecutive finals, and their coach, Didier Deschamps, already knows how to win under pressure. Brazil has 5 World Cup titles and is looking for its sixth. Argentina has won 3 cups and is looking to equal Italy's record. France was a finalist in 2018 and 2022, winning one. Germany has 4 titles but wants revenge after being eliminated in the group stage in 2018 and 2022. These teams have won 13 of the 22 World Cups played. If the If football weren't logical, these teams would always be in the semifinals. But we know the World Cup is also full of surprises…
Dark horses that could pull off an upset
Beyond the established powerhouses, there are teams arriving hungry, talented, and thirsty for glory. Teams like England, Portugal, Morocco, and Uruguay could be the surprise package. They've done it in past tournaments and arrive with revamped squads, full of young stars who aren't intimidated. England, for example, has a brilliant crop: Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, and Harry Kane lead a generation that reached the semifinals in 2018 and the final at Euro 2020. Southgate's team averages 2.4 goals per game in European qualifying. Portugal, Morocco, and the South Americans: Portugal arrives with a balanced team of experience (Cristiano Ronaldo, Pepe) and youth (João Félix, Gonçalo Ramos). Their football is attacking, with long spells of possession and good finishing. Will this be the World Cup where Cristiano closes his cycle with a golden touch?
Morocco was already a semi-finalist in 2022, breaking the mold and leaving out Belgium, Spain and Portugal. With a solid defensive unit and stars like Hakimi and Ziyech, the Atlas Lions can be contenders again.
Uruguay has Darwin Núñez, Valverde, and Araujo as leaders of the new generation.
The Netherlands is once again excited with Gakpo, Xavi Simons, and a strong team game.
Croatia, with Modrić possibly nearing retirement, always puts up a fight in key matches.
Senegal, with Mané back, could be the African surprise.
Japan and South Korea arrive with modern tactics and great tactical discipline.
Key Factors and Final Prediction
The 2026 World Cup will have a new format: 48 teams, more matches, and more wear and tear. This makes physical preparation, squad rotation, and bench depth more important than ever. Furthermore, the tournament is played in three countries, with different climates, altitudes, and time zones, which can influence performance.
Another key aspect will be emotional management. VAR, media pressure, the weight of being favorites... All of that adds up.
The experience of technicians like Scaloni, Deschamps or Ancelotti (if he arrives with Brazil) could make the difference.Who wins the cup?
Today, according to the main betting houses (Bet365, William Hill), the five top favorites for the title are:
France - quota 5.0
Argentina - quota 5.5
Brazil - quota 6.0
England - quota 7.0
Portugal - quota 9.0
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