Animal ‘oracles’ split over World Cup final, with Spain the popular pick | OneFootball

From turtles to giraffes and dachshunds, animal “oracles” have become a World Cup sideshow, their snack-time choices doubling as predictions that captivate fans.

According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, these videos have amassed large followings, with some creatures building a surprising record of correct calls.

Yellow, the Sea Life Benalmádena turtle, selects between two portions of broccoli marked with team flags. She picked Spain to beat Uruguay, Austria, Portugal, Belgium and France, and for Sunday’s final has again backed Luis de la Fuente’s side.

Fali, a giraffe at Terra Natura Murcia, also won admirers after a run of Spain-leaning choices that came good. His latest selection once more favours La Roja, and his clips draw heavy viewing on social platforms.

From Thailand, Moo Deng, a pygmy hippo famed for nailing the Euro 2024 final and champions, turned heads by forecasting a France v England final before the semi-finals. For the showpiece he differs from Yellow and Fali, opting for Argentina.

Others have joined in: Taco the partridge eventually chose Spain after a long pause, Rubí the goat made a beeline for Spain, and Elfi the dachshund backed Spain while tipping a final against Argentina.

Whether superstition, fun or curiosity, these viral forecasts now fuel pre-match chatter, proving football’s charm also thrives in the most unexpected stories.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo