Toni Kroos Names 2026 World Cup Favourites, Makes Clear Call on Ronaldo’s Portugal and Messi’s Argentina
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just months away, football legend Toni Kroos has weighed in with a compelling set of predictions about which nations he believes are most likely to lift the trophy next summer. In a statement that has captured global attention, Kroos nominated Portugal, Spain and France as his primary favorites and offered a surprising nod to Morocco as a potential dark horse all while excluding defending champions Argentina from his top list.
Kroos, widely respected for his tactical insight and decorated career including World Cup glory with Germany in 2014, shared his views during a recent media appearance. His selections reflect both respect for traditional European powerhouses and recognition of emerging strength from less-heralded teams. According to reports, Kroos said that Spain and France are strong favorites due to their deep talent pools and recent international form, alongside Portugal under the leadership of Cristiano Ronaldo and a mix of seasoned stars and rising talent.
Under coach Roberto Martínez, Portugal has blended experience with youthful creativity, positioning itself as a cohesive and dangerous unit capable of challenging any team on its day. This balance is likely a key reason Kroos backed the Portuguese side, even as other elite nations jockey for favoritism.
Similarly, Kroos omitted Brazil and Germany from his top contenders, a decision that has ignited debate among fans and analysts. Both nations carry rich World Cup histories and star-studded lineups, but in Kroos’s assessment they fall just outside his top tier of favorites.
As global anticipation builds for the 2026 World Cup set to be the largest ever with 48 teams competing across the USA, Canada and Mexico such expert predictions add fuel to the excitement and discussion surrounding football’s most prestigious tournament.
Kroos, widely respected for his tactical insight and decorated career including World Cup glory with Germany in 2014, shared his views during a recent media appearance. His selections reflect both respect for traditional European powerhouses and recognition of emerging strength from less-heralded teams. According to reports, Kroos said that Spain and France are strong favorites due to their deep talent pools and recent international form, alongside Portugal under the leadership of Cristiano Ronaldo and a mix of seasoned stars and rising talent.
Portugal’s Rising Profile
Portugal’s inclusion at the top of Kroos’s list is particularly noteworthy given Cristiano Ronaldo’s continued presence in the squad. Now 40 years old, Ronaldo is widely expected to make the 2026 tournament his final World Cup appearance, and despite occasional comments suggesting that a World Cup isn’t the defining achievement of his career, his leadership and record-breaking scoring prowess remain central to Portugal’s ambitions.Under coach Roberto Martínez, Portugal has blended experience with youthful creativity, positioning itself as a cohesive and dangerous unit capable of challenging any team on its day. This balance is likely a key reason Kroos backed the Portuguese side, even as other elite nations jockey for favoritism.
Spain and France: Traditional Powerhouses
Spain, with its strong midfield and emerging attacking stars, continues to be seen as one of the best teams in the world, combining technical excellence with tactical depth. France, meanwhile, remains a perennial contender, boasting one of the most talented squads in global football. Kroos’s inclusion of both teams aligns with broader pundit and oddsmaker projections that place these nations among the front-runners for World Cup glory.Morocco: The Surprise Contender
One of the more intriguing aspects of Kroos’s prediction is his endorsement of Morocco as a potential surprise package. The North African side has earned plaudits for its technical progress and competitive performances in recent tournaments, including a historic semifinal run in the 2022 World Cup. Kroos’s comment underscores growing respect for teams outside the traditional European and South American elite, signaling a more unpredictable tournament ahead.Notable Absences and Reactions
Perhaps most striking in Kroos’s prediction is the absence of Argentina, the defending World Cup champions and home to Lionel Messi himself tipped by some to participate in yet another global showpiece and potentially secure a rare sixth World Cup appearance. Despite Argentina’s pedigree and Messi’s influence, Kroos’s list reflects his personal view on the competitive landscape heading into 2026.Similarly, Kroos omitted Brazil and Germany from his top contenders, a decision that has ignited debate among fans and analysts. Both nations carry rich World Cup histories and star-studded lineups, but in Kroos’s assessment they fall just outside his top tier of favorites.
As global anticipation builds for the 2026 World Cup set to be the largest ever with 48 teams competing across the USA, Canada and Mexico such expert predictions add fuel to the excitement and discussion surrounding football’s most prestigious tournament.
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