The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to kick off in North America, Many analysts believe this could be the most unpredictable World Cup ever.
In this article, we highlight the 2026 FIFA World Cup Winner Prediction from ESPN FC’s top writers and analysts.
2026 FIFA World Cup Winner Prediction
Here are the teams that ESPN FC writers and analysts predict will win the 2026 World Cup, along with their insights.
1. Spain
- Last World Cup win: 2010
- FIFA rank: 1
According to ESPN’s Mark Ogden:
They have two world-class goalkeepers in Unai Simón and David Raya, a proven defense and a midfield including Martín Zubimendi, Pedri and Rodri.
Further forward, on top of the consistency and reliability of Mikel Oyarzabal and Dani Olmo, there is winger Lamine Yamal, who is capable of leading Spain to glory in his first World Cup.
2. England
- Last World Cup win: 1966
- FIFA rank: 4
According to ESPN’s Julien Laurens:
The biggest factor here besides England’s talent is that they finally have a manager who is not afraid of making big calls and being honest about it.
The Three Lions have one of the most talented squads of players, Seriously, take your pick from Elliot Anderson, Alex Scott, Adam Wharton, Morgan Rogers … need I say more?
3. France
- Last World Cup win: 2018
- FIFA rank: 3
According to ESPN’s Beth Lindop:
While I think Spain are possibly the most balanced team in world football, I’m opting for Les Bleus, having followed up their 2018 triumph by reaching the final in 2022.
With the likes of Hugo Ekitike, Bradley Barcola and Désiré Doué in the squad, Didier Deschamps has an embarrassment of attacking riches at his disposal.
4. Argentina
- Last World Cup win: 2022
- FIFA rank: 2
According to ESPN’s Rob Dawson:
They’ve got Emiliano Martínez, Cristian Romero, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernández and Julián Álvarez around him. It’s a formidable spine to the team.
World Cups are won by sides that can grow into a tournament, and Argentina have got invaluable inexperience from four years ago. They’re the ones to beat.
Further Reading: 2026 FIFA World Cup Favorites Odds: Who’s Trending Up?
Which Dark Horses Could Shock the World in 2026?
1. Morocco
Although the competition will be fiercer this time around, with more countries taking part in the 2026 edition.
Morocco has a solid squad with head manager Walid Regragui trusting his group of players, who constantly show real hunger to prevail.
2. Croatia
There may be an argument for Croatia to be somewhere between underdogs and dark horses for next year’s World Cup, as the nation has overperformed over the past two editions.
The football isn’t flamboyant, nor does Croatia have superstars in every position on the field, but their experience in recent years may be an important factor.
3. Ghana
Although no African nations have yet to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, both Mohammed Kudus and Antoine Semenyo could prove to be a lethal partnership next year.
Other reliable players include Inaki Williams, Thomas Partey, Tariq Lamptey, and Mohammed Salisu.
Further Reading: 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualified Teams: Latest List, Underdogs
Conclusion
Traditional powerhouses like Spain, England, France, and Argentina each possess world class depth, tactical clarity, and star players capable of carrying them to the trophy.
Yet the emergence of ambitious dark horse nations such as Morocco, Croatia, Ghana, and Japan proves that the global gap is narrowing fast.
