The 2026 FIFA World Cup is down to its final six teams, and the tournament is shaping up to be a thrilling conclusion. With only six matches remaining, the remaining contenders are battling it out for the ultimate prize. Here's an analysis of the current rankings and a look at what's next for each team.
France: The Undisputed Favorites
France remains the clear favorite to win the World Cup, and for good reason. Their attacking prowess is unmatched, with Kylian Mbappé leading the way with eight goals and Ousmane Dembélé chipping in with five. The team's ability to create chances is evident, as Michael Olise tops the assists chart with five. But it's not just their attack that's impressive; France's defense has been rock solid, conceding only two goals in six matches.
The Athletic's live projection tool forecasts a 34% chance of France lifting the trophy, and it's easy to see why. Their knockout-stage matches have been a testament to their strength, with no goals conceded and barely any chances allowed. France's ability to dominate both offensively and defensively makes them a formidable force.
Spain: Finding a Way to Success
Spain's journey to the semi-finals has been a testament to their resilience and tactical prowess. They've kept their opposition's chances to a minimum, with Belgium creating a mere 0.37 expected goals. Lamine Yamal has shown glimpses of his top form, but he's yet to match the goal-scoring feats of his teammates. However, Spain's stubborn defense has been the key to their success, with Mikel Merino and Mikel Oyarzabal proving their worth.
The semi-final against France is a tantalizing prospect, pitting an unstoppable force against an immovable object. Spain's ability to find a way to success, even when things aren't going their way, makes them a dangerous opponent.
Argentina: Back-and-Forth Battles
Argentina's knockout games have been a rollercoaster, with back-and-forth battles against Cape Verde and Egypt. The team's susceptibility to giving up leads, as seen against the Netherlands and France four years ago, is a concern. However, their ability to turn things around, as they did against Egypt, showcases their strength of character and will to win.
The question now is how much these two matches have taken out of Argentina. They face Switzerland in the next round, who have proven themselves to be a tough nut to crack. The fact that Argentina has avoided one of the more fancied teams in the quarter-finals keeps them above England in these rankings.
A Tantalizing Semi-Final
The semi-finals promise to be a thrilling affair, with France and Spain set to clash in a classic match. The question is, who will come out on top? France's attacking prowess and defensive solidity make them a strong favorite, but Spain's ability to find a way to success cannot be overlooked.
As the tournament progresses, the remaining teams are showcasing their resilience, tactical brilliance, and sheer determination. The final six matches will be a testament to the skill and passion of these players, and the World Cup will undoubtedly deliver an unforgettable conclusion.
