Atlanta, July 16: Spain have been installed as favourites to lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy ahead of Sunday’s final against defending champions Argentina, according to leading bookmakers and prediction markets.
The European champions head into the title clash with the betting advantage despite Argentina’s dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over England in the semi-finals. Lionel Messi’s side overturned a one-goal deficit with two late strikes to book their place in a second successive World Cup final.
Spain, who reached the final after overcoming France, have opened as -175 favourites to win the tournament, while Argentina are listed as +125 underdogs, according to BetMGM.
Prediction market Kalshi also gives Spain the edge, estimating the Spaniards have a 58 per cent chance of lifting the trophy compared to 42 per cent for Argentina.
Argentina entered the semi-final against England as slight underdogs before producing another spirited comeback to keep alive their hopes of retaining the World Cup crown.
The final is expected to pit Spain’s possession-based style against an experienced Argentina side led by the inspirational Messi, who will be aiming to guide his country to back-to-back World Cup titles.
Despite Spain entering the final as the bookmakers’ favourites, recent results have shown that Argentina have thrived in the role of underdogs throughout the tournament.
Lionel Scaloni’s side have repeatedly demonstrated resilience, tactical discipline and the ability to deliver under pressure, most notably with their dramatic comeback against England in the semi-finals.
Much of the spotlight will once again fall on 39-year-old Lionel Messi, who is chasing what could be the final major honour of his illustrious international career and an opportunity to become only the second captain after Italy’s Giuseppe Meazza to lead his nation to successive World Cup titles. (Agencies)
