With the 2026 World Cup just around the corner, there are talks starting about the upcoming tournament. Everyone is wondering who the big contenders are to win the whole thing. For some legends, such as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, it might be their last World Cup ever, and they are chasing a FIFA World Cup trophy.
As the date comes closer and closer, fans are getting prepared and excited for June 11th, 2026, the opening day of the World Cup. Everyone is expecting a packed-out stadium to kick the tournament off.
When we talk about the underdogs and powerhouses in the tournament, there are a few names that come to mind.
“I think Spain has the best player in the tournament and has the best overall odds to go out and win the FIFA 2026 World Cup,” says soccer fan Michael Marrs (‘28). “Everyone is saying France will overtake Spain, but I just don’t see that happening.”
We all know these familiar faces, like Messi and Ronaldo, but everyone is wondering who the new upcoming faces for this years world cup will be. There is buzz about Lamine Yamal from Spain, but there have also been talks about Nico Williams from Spain and Michael Olise from France.
“When we talk about underdogs, we have to mention Ekitike,” says soccer fan Issak Salah (‘29). “He is the best center forward in the world, and he has the most skill out of all of them. “I believe they have a very good chance to win the World Cup.”
Everyone has been asking who will win the Golden Boot and the Golden Ball. Last year’s winner was Kylian Mbappé from France. People are labeling him as one of the best players in all of soccer.
“When you talk about the Golden Boot, the first name that comes to mind is Declan Rice of England,” says soccer fan Jacob Carbone (‘26). “He’s really the powerhouse of the team. I really think that he’ll be a big part of their success, and I think he’ll win it.“
Everyone is waiting for June 11th, the first game of the World Cup. It will take place in Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, Mexico. The first two teams to play will be Mexico and South Africa. This will be a great match-up to start the World Cup.
