Messi Names Portugal, France as World Cup Favorites Over Argentina

Four national teams are currently better positioned than defending champions Argentina to win the 2026 World Cup, according to Lionel Messi. The Inter Miami star named Portugal, France, Spain, and Brazil as sides entering the tournament in superior form, a surprising assessment from the captain who led Argentina to glory in Qatar.

In an interview with Argentine journalist Pollo Alvarez, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner struck a cautious tone about his own team's chances of retaining the title. “We have to realise that ahead of us there are other favourites, who are arriving in better shape,” Messi said, offering a modest evaluation of the Albiceleste's current standing.

Portugal and France Lead the Pack

The most notable inclusion on Messi's list is Portugal, the side captained by his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo. Messi described Roberto Martinez's squad as a “very competitive team,” highlighting their balance and depth across all positions as making them a more polished unit than the current Argentine setup.

Messi also reserved significant praise for France, the team Argentina defeated in the 2022 final. He remains wary of Kylian Mbappé and company, citing their ability to sustain high performance over multiple tournament cycles. “France is very strong again; it has tons of players at a very high level,” he noted, acknowledging a roster that includes Ousmane Dembele and Michael Olise.

Brazil and Spain Remain Threats

While focusing on the current form of Portugal and France, Messi insisted the historical heavyweights cannot be ignored. He pointed to Brazil and Spain as teams with the pedigree to go all the way, regardless of any perceived struggles in their build-up to the tournament. “Spain and Brazil, which, even though they haven't been at their best for a little while, are always contenders,” he said.

The 2026 World Cup is widely expected to be the final appearance on the global stage for both Messi and Ronaldo. Argentina will arrive in North America aiming to become one of the few nations to successfully defend a World Cup title, but Messi has shifted the pressure onto the rivals he believes are currently leading the race for football's greatest prize.