Lionel Messi, the legendary Argentine forward, has acknowledged that defending Argentina’s World Cup crown in 2026 will be no easy feat. Speaking ahead of the tournament, he highlighted several nations he sees as serious contenders, notably excluding Portugal, the team led by Cristiano Ronaldo.
The memories of the 2022 World Cup final are still vivid. Argentina claimed a dramatic victory over France in a match that thrilled football fans around the world. Messi’s extraordinary performance, coupled with Emiliano Martínez’s heroic saves, propelled Argentina to a 3rd World Cup title, cementing their place among football’s elite.
Looking ahead to the next edition of football’s greatest tournament, which will take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico in June and July 2026, Argentina will aim to replicate Brazil’s historic achievement of winning consecutive World Cups, a feat last accomplished in 1962.
Messi has already identified Spain, France, England, Brazil, and Germany as the primary threats Argentina will face. His assessment notably leaves out Portugal, suggesting that, in his eyes, they are less likely to challenge Argentina’s title defense.
“There are many strong teams like Spain, France again, England, Brazil, which has waited a long time for another title, and Germany. It’s going to be very difficult, but we will fight and give our all,” Messi told ESPN.
Interestingly, betting odds paint a slightly different picture. DraftKings currently lists Spain as the top favourite to win the 2026 tournament, with England close behind, eager to end a 60-year World Cup drought. France and Brazil follow, while Argentina is fifth on the list. Portugal is placed sixth, trailing behind the nations Messi considers real contenders.
As fans eagerly await the tournament draw, which will be revealed later today, Argentina will soon discover the path they must navigate in their quest to defend the crown. One thing is certain: Messi and his teammates will face stiff competition if they are to repeat their historic triumph.
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