Di Maria 2026 World Cup favourites: Argentina icon tips France, Spain and Portugal as top contenders for the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Argentina icon Ángel Di María has named his leading contenders for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, highlighting France, Spain and Portugal as the teams most likely to challenge for football’s biggest prize in a recent interview.

Also read: Man United Confirm Hojlund Exit as Liverpool Eye Diomande

The former Argentina international, who played a decisive role in helping his country win the 2022 FIFA World Cup, shared his views during a conversation with Ballon d’Or, offering insight into the global balance of power ahead of the tournament.

Di María said France remain a strong favourite due to their depth of talent and consistent production of top-level players, describing them as a side that maintains an elite standard across generations.

The World Cup discussion also featured Spain, whom he believes are steadily building into serious contenders, although he noted that their chances may depend on the fitness of key injured players.

He also pointed to Portugal as another major threat, praising the quality within their squad and highlighting the influence of young midfielders João Neves and Vitinha, whom he described as players capable of shaping matches at the highest level.

According to him, several emerging teams have strengthened the competitive landscape, making the 2026 tournament one of the most open in recent years.

Di María added that while multiple nations are in contention, only three or four teams currently stand out as genuine title challengers based on form and squad quality.

His comments come as global anticipation builds ahead of the expanded World Cup, with traditional powerhouses and emerging sides expected to battle for supremacy.

Also read: Man United Confirm Hojlund Exit as Liverpool Eye Diomande

The Argentina legend’s perspective carries weight given his experience at the highest level, including his pivotal performances in major international finals.