Spain embraces World Cup 2026 favorite tag, but pressure looms
Graham Keeley
Spain enters the 2026 World Cup as a top contender, but faces pressure from high expectations. Former players and fans urge caution, citing past shocks and tough competition from Brazil, France, and Germany.
Euro 2024 champions Spain head into the 2026 World Cup as one of the top favorites, but must navigate the weight of immense expectations. Former Barcelona and Spain defender Miguel Angel Nadal told Al Jazeera that Spain sits among the frontrunners but will face fierce competition from Brazil, France, and Germany.
Nadal, who played for Spain at the 1994, 1998, and 2002 World Cups, emphasized: “In principle, Spain is one of the most favored teams to win, but there is significant competition from other nations such as Brazil, France, and Germany. It is crucial that the players do not let the pressure weigh them down and that they remain united. The World Cup is the pinnacle of their careers.” He also warned about the intense summer heat in the Americas, urging players to manage temperatures carefully.
Some fans, despite high hopes, remain cautious. Manel Hernandez, secretary general of the Barcelona fan group “con la Seleccion,” voiced concerns about the weight of expectation, recalling Spain’s group-stage exit at the 2014 World Cup as defending champions. “Obviously, I want Spain to win, but look at what happened in 2014. Saying we will win before we start playing is not good. We have a seemingly easy group with Saudi Arabia, Uruguay, and Cape Verde, but the reality is that teams will give their all.” Hernandez said he will not travel to the US to watch the World Cup due to prohibitive costs.
British sports journalist Graham Hunter, set to be a television producer for the Spanish national team, believes Spain deserves the title. “In terms of form and a healthy squad, Spain is the best team in the world. There are very few competitors, including France, Portugal, and Argentina.” However, he stressed that luck, weather conditions, and team atmosphere also play crucial roles.
Reuters football correspondent Fernando Kallas also ranks Spain as the number one contender. “They are my favorite team. They won Euro two years ago with impressive play. Spain plays like a club. About 90% of the squad understands the tactical system. They don't need big stars to be a good team.” Kallas noted that Spain’s main issue could be injuries to key players like Lamine Yamal, Rodri, and Nico Williams.
