German football legend Jurgen Klinsmann has revealed his prediction for the winner of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, overlooking the co-hosts United States, Canada, and Mexico. The former Germany and South Korea coach instead backed Portugal and Argentina as the leading contenders for the title.
Klinsmann Backs Portugal for World Cup Glory
Speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, the 64-year-old Stuttgart legend explained that he sees similarities between the current Portugal squad and the Argentina side that lifted the World Cup in Qatar four years ago. Both teams, he noted, are built around iconic leaders who inspire those around them.
"My two favourites are Portugal because I see a little bit of similarity to Argentina in Qatar, where everybody played for Lionel Messi. In Portugal, everybody plays for Cristiano Ronaldo," Klinsmann said via Sportskeeda. He added that Ronaldo is fully supported by an incredible team of quality under a very good coach in Roberto Martinez.
The 1990 World Cup winner also highlighted Brazil as another strong contender for the trophy, citing the depth and quality within the Selecao squad.
Fans React to Klinsmann's Comments
Social media users reacted to Klinsmann's predictions. @iamjustalffie commented that while everyone plays for Messi in Argentina, Portugal seems to play better without Ronaldo. @BrT18__ criticized Klinsmann for not acknowledging the difference between how the teams play for their stars. @rockysanta73324 questioned the inclusion of Brazil and England among the favorites.
Klinsmann Backs England to Challenge
The former Bayern Munich coach also supported England, led by German coach Thomas Tuchel, to excel at the tournament. He said via Yahoo Sports: "I think Brazil has also a shot at it, and England has absolute quality, equality to if they have the belief." He clarified that his backing is not due to the German coach but because of the team's quality.
England will be hoping to end their long wait for major international success, while Brazil continue their pursuit of a record-extending sixth World Cup title.
Supercomputer Predicts World Cup Winner
Legit.ng previously reported that Opta's supercomputer predicted Spain as the leading favorite for the 2026 World Cup, followed by France, England, Argentina, and Portugal.
The 23rd edition of the Mundial will kick off in June, with co-hosts Mexico taking on South Africa in the opening match at Estadio Banorte in Mexico City.
