Di 2026 FIFA World Cup don finally kick off, with Mexico vs. ET as di first match of 104 games wey go last for weeks. ESPN writers from around di world don make dia predictions, and di main question na who go lift di trophy on July 19.
Spain and France dey clear favorites, with 16 out of 19 votes for winner. Spain na di only team wey appear on every ballot. Seven writers expect Argentina to make another deep run, but nobody pick dem to repeat as champions. Lionel Messi and company go begin dia campaign against Algeria on Tuesday.
Lamine Yamal of Spain be di top pick for best young player, with 13 out of 19 votes. Five writers even expect am to win di Golden Ball for best player. For Golden Boot, France’s Kylian Mbappé lead with seven votes, and three writers pick am for Golden Ball.
For dark horse teams, Japan dey popular among writers like Lizzy Becherano and Cesar Hernandez, wey praise dia attack-minded style and solid defense. Ecuador get nods from Tom Hamilton and Alex Kirkland, wey mention players like Moisés Caicedo, Willian Pacho, and Piero Hincapié. Norway, with Erling Haaland, also dey tipped by Rob Dawson and Beth Lindop.
Some writers dey fear say Netherlands fit struggle under Ronald Koeman, while Uruguay get questions about Marcelo Bielsa’s tactics. Senegal, Egypt, and Sweden dey seen as potential surprises. For host nations, Mexico dey expected to go far due to altitude advantage at Estadio Azteca, but Canada and United States fit face tough knockout matches.
Breakout stars include Mexico’s Gilberto Mora, di tournament’s youngest player at 17, and Ivory Coast‘s Yan Diomande. France’s Michael Olise and Turkey‘s Arda Güler also dey tipped to shine. Best matches predicted include France vs. Norway, Spain vs. Uruguay, and Brazil vs. Morocco.
Bold predictions from writers include Thomas Tuchel quitting as England coach, only four European nations reaching quarterfinals, and two African teams making semifinals. Di Guardian writers also predict Spain and France as favorites, with some picking England or Portugal. Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappé dey seen as top Golden Boot contenders.
