Why Messi Sees Brazil as 2026 World Cup Favorites Over Argentina | OneFootball

Lionel Messi has identified Brazil as a top contender for the 2026 World Cup, stating "Brazil is always a candidate" despite the team's recent inconsistent form. The Argentina captain acknowledged that "ahead of us there are other favourites, who are arriving in better shape," placing Brazil alongside France, Spain, and Portugal as nations currently better positioned than the defending champions.

The Logic Behind Messi's Assessment

Messi's evaluation recognizes Brazil's structural advantages, noting that "even if they haven't been at their best for a while, are always a contender" with "the players to compete in all official competitions". This assessment reflects Brazil's consistent talent pipeline and institutional depth rather than recent results.

The Inter Miami star's analysis focuses on "preparation and squad depth," suggesting that Brazil's player development system and tactical flexibility under new management provide advantages over Argentina's current setup. With Carlo Ancelotti now leading Brazil's technical approach, the team benefits from proven tournament experience at the highest level.

Argentina's Defensive Championship Challenge

Argentina faces the historical challenge of becoming "one of the few nations to ever successfully defend a World Cup title," a feat that requires different tactical and psychological preparation than winning as challengers. Messi's cautious approach stems from "personal experience" of "several painful defeats in major tournaments" before Argentina's recent success.

The captain acknowledged current squad limitations, noting "a lot of guys who are dealing with injuries or a lack of match fitness," while emphasizing that the team's proven tournament mentality remains intact.

Tournament Dynamics in North America

The 2026 World Cup's format across the United States, Mexico, and Canada creates unique logistical and tactical considerations, where Brazil's experience managing travel and different playing conditions could prove advantageous. Messi emphasized that "no team can feel safe" and "unexpected things always happen," highlighting how the expanded format increases unpredictability.

Brazil's inclusion among Messi's favorites reflects the structural realities of international football, where talent depth and institutional stability often outweigh recent form in major tournaments. With the 2026 World Cup "widely expected to be the final time Messi and his long-time rival Ronaldo appear on the world stage," the tournament represents a generational transition where established powers like Brazil maintain competitive advantages through systematic development rather than individual brilliance.