World Cup 2026 Outright Winner Tips & Predictions - Spain deserved favourites; Brazil hold value

What separates this Spanish side from many of their rivals is the balance throughout the squad. Lamine Yamal has already emerged as one of the most exciting attacking players in world football, while Nico Williams provides pace, creativity and directness on the opposite flank. In midfield, Pedri remains the heartbeat of the team, supported by the composure and leadership of former Ballon d'Or winner Rodri and Martin Zubimendi. Mikel Oyarzabal reaps the rewards starting up front and is also a sneaky good outside value bet to win the Golden Boot.

Defensively, Spain appear set for the future and more importantly the present. Young centre-backs Pau Cubarsi and Dean Huijsen possess the quality, composure and technical ability required to anchor the backline for years to come, while Aymeric Laporte provides the experience for this World Cup. Their emergence has helped create a squad with very few weaknesses across the pitch.

Importantly, Spain are no longer solely reliant on controlling possession. Under De la Fuente they have become more dynamic, more direct and more ruthless in transition, while retaining their ability to dominate the ball against any opponent. Their high pressing game, technical superiority and tactical flexibility make them an extremely difficult proposition in knockout football.

France, Argentina and Brazil all have legitimate claims as title contenders (and we'll look at one of those soon), but Spain enter the tournament with arguably the most complete squad, the strongest recent tournament record and a manager who has successfully blended youth and experience into a cohesive unit. Just quickly on France - they have history of shock early World Cup exits, they've landed in the closest thing to a Group of Death that the new 48-team tournament provides (Norway, Senegal) and there's a case to be made that they have too many chefs in the kitchen, especially in attack. Argentina meanwhile largely have the same squad that prevailed in 2022, but older - and that's not necessarily a good thing. Can't see them going back-to-back.

With world-class talent in every area of the pitch and momentum firmly on their side, Spain look well placed to add a second World Cup title in 2026. If you're looking for the most likely winner before a ball is kicked, La Roja remain the standout selection.