The 2026 World Cup, with its expanded format, is entering its most intense stages. After all three host nations were eliminated early in the round of 16, the stage now belongs to the traditional powerhouses of world football. In-depth analysis points to a dramatic scenario: a rematch between two of Europe's leading football nations, France and England, in the final.
A dream final: Deschamps' pragmatism versus Tuchel's ambition.
According to expert predictions, the final match for the historic World Cup will be a clash between France and England. This is an opportunity for the "Three Lions," under the leadership of Thomas Tuchel, to avenge their bitter 1-2 defeat in Qatar four years ago. Harry Kane , now a true attacking legend, carries the responsibility of ending England's decades-long trophy drought.
However, the biggest challenge lies in the overall strength of the French squad. Didier Deschamps possesses an incredibly deep team, where individuals on the bench are capable of turning the tide. Although England are expected to play bravely, the sharpness of Kylian Mbappe and France's tight defense could lead to a 1-3 defeat. If this happens, it would be England's third major tournament final loss in just six years.
Quarter-final standings: Class and tactical mistakes
Before even thinking about the final, the big teams must overcome obstacles in the form of "dark horses" or rivals with a long history of rivalry. In France's bracket, the clash with Morocco is predicted to hold no surprises. Although the African representative has improved their attacking capabilities, weaknesses in their defense and declining physical fitness in the final stages will provide opportunities for the superior attack of "Les Bleus" to punish them. A comfortable 2-0 victory for France is widely anticipated.
Meanwhile, Luis de la Fuente's Spain will face a high-spirited Belgium. However, "La Roja's" strength lies in their absolute control of the midfield with the duo of Pedri and Rodri. The suffocating pressure from short passes and high-pressure pressing will help Spain stifle Belgium's counter-attacks, thus securing a 2-0 victory.
The third quarter-final match featured a high-stakes individual showdown between the two best number 9s in the world today: Harry Kane and Erling Haaland. Although Norway possessed creative minds like Martin Odegaard, the experience and composure of England's star-studded squad were predicted to make the difference. The 2-1 victory for Thomas Tuchel's team accurately reflected the strength and experience of both sides.
In the other match, Argentina will face the disciplined Swiss team. Given their over-reliance on Lionel Messi, the South American side may struggle against their opponent's well-organized style of play. However, star power will remain key to Argentina securing a narrow 1-0 victory.
A fierce semi-final: The winner will be determined by youthful energy and sharpness.
The semi-finals will be where the ultimate limits are tested. The clash between France and Spain is likened to an early final, a rematch of the Euro 2024 showdown. Spain's unbeaten defense will face the ultimate test in the form of Kylian Mbappe. The difference lies in the center forward position: while Spain lacks a true striker, France is incredibly effective at finishing off opponents. A 2-1 victory for France after 120 breathtaking minutes is the most likely scenario.
In the other semi-final, England and Argentina will rekindle fiery memories from history. Both teams possess powerful attacks, but their defenses reveal fatal weaknesses. In an open, attacking game, the physical prowess and youthful energy of the English players are expected to overwhelm an Argentina side that is gradually entering the twilight of its career. A 3-2 victory would send England to their second consecutive World Cup final.
Overall, while predictions are leaning towards a final between France and England, football is full of surprises. Teams like Argentina, Spain, or even Morocco are perfectly capable of rewriting history if they capitalize on their opponents' mistakes.