The main favorites to win the FIFA World Cup 2026

The 2026 World Cup is almost here and it's shaping up to be the most thrilling edition yet. Set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with an expansion of 48 teams competing across North America. We are about to experience football history like never before.

As anticipation builds, sports betting analyst Kate Richardson provides an in-depth look at the top contenders and where the smart money lies. This article delves into the strengths, key players, and betting odds of the favorite teams vying for football's golden prize.

France – The Formidable Favorites 

France, the 2018 champions and 2022 runners-up, remain a consistent contender with a blend of experience and emerging talent. Key players like Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, and William Saliba continue to lead the squad. The French team would surely perform without a doubt. Current betting odds place France at +500 to win the tournament. 
  

 “Nothing feels better than being a world champion.” – Didier Deschamps of France going for the world cup trophy.

France offers solid value for outright bets and player-specific markets. A betting gold mine that shouldn’t be neglected.

Argentina – The Defending Champions

World Champions Argentina aims to defend their title with a squad that blends experience, youthful exuberance and a winning mentality. You can count the number of matches the champs have lost since their golden triumph on one hand. Key players include Lautaro Martínez, Enzo Fernández, Julián Álvarez and with the great Lionel Messi place Argentina’s odds at +800.

"The spirit Messi left is still pushing us." – Lionel Scaloni talks about Messi’s impact on Argentina.

Argentina offers value in futures and stage progression markets. Betting on the South American giants and Messi can make you millions before the tournament goes far. 

Brazil – The Samba Kings 

Brazil enters the tournament with a rejuvenated squad blending seasoned players and young talents headed by one of the most successful coaches in football, Carlo Ancelotti. Stars like Vinícius Jr., Rodrygo, Raphinha and Endrick are expected to make significant impacts to charge the Samba boys to glory. Brazil's odds stand at +600.

"Brazil can end 24-year World Cup wait." – Cafu predicts World Cup winner.

Brazil is a strong candidate for outright bets and individual player accolades.

England – The Youthful Powerhouse

The Three Lions are in their golden age boasting a young, dynamic squad aiming to achieve  success in international tournaments after years of getting so close. With talents like Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, and Harry Kane, the team is poised for a super campaign. Thomas Tuchel could take these boys all the way. Betting odds currently list England at +700.
    

“We have the players, the talent and the characteristics to go far.” – Thomas Tuchel on England’s chances at the 2026 world cup.

Consider England for deep tournament runs and top scorer markets. 

Spain – The Tactical Maestros

The European Champions’ tactical prowess and technical skill make them ever present contenders on the world stage. With talents like Pedri, Rodri, and Lamine Yamal, they are a team to watch. Entertaining at the same time Lethal. Spain is currently favored with odds at +500.

"Spain are the favourites in 2026." – FOX Sports Analyst

Spain is a solid pick for outright bets and group stage dominance.

USA – The Home Advantage

As co-hosts, the USA team aims to capitalize on home advantage and a vibrant talent pool. There is no chance they would win the trophy but they are very capable of giving a strong fight while also having a favourable group.

Key players include Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Gio Reyna. And with Mauricio Pochettino in the dugout, the sky looks like their limit. The USA's odds stand at +2500.
  

 “2026 is our moment." – Gregg Berhalter.

The USA presents value in group stage and knockout round bets.

Betting Takeaways

Top Picks:

• France and Spain offer strong value for outright winners.
• Argentina and Brazil are solid bets for deep tournament runs.
• England's golden squad is a wildcard with huge potential.
• The USA team could shock the world with home advantage.

Early bets can lock in better odds before the tournament kicks off. 

Conclusion

The 2026 FIFA World Cup promises to be one for the history books with fierce competition among top-tier teams, battling for the crown across three countries. With such a wide geography and high level of participants, interest in the tournament from fans and analysts continues to grow.

Portuguese soccer fans traditionally follow such competitions actively, especially when it comes to prediction strategies and analyzing the teams' form. Surely a spectacle to behold. With expert analysis from Kate Richardson, bettors can make informed decisions and reliable predictions. 

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The article was provided by Kate Richardson