Former Netherlands star Wesley Sneijder has delivered a sobering prediction for England fans, omitting the Three Lions from his list of favourites to reach the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup.
Sneijder's Final Four Favourites
The 41-year-old, who was instrumental in guiding the Netherlands to the 2010 final, was asked by Spanish newspaper Marca to name the teams he expects to challenge for the crown in the United States next summer. His selections did not include Gareth Southgate's successors.
"Portugal, Spain, France, and Brazil," stated Sneijder, explaining his reasoning. "I didn’t mention England because the competition is much tougher now. They’re all very close together. It’s going to be crazy."
Praise Amidst the Pessimism
Despite his snub, the ex-Real Madrid and Inter Milan playmaker was quick to acknowledge the quality within the England camp under manager Thomas Tuchel. He described the squad at Tuchel's disposal as "an incredible team", placing them in the same bracket as his own Dutch nation, whom he also left out of his top four.
"England also has an incredible team. As does the Netherlands. They’re very good," Sneijder conceded. "But I have to choose four teams for the semi-finals, and this is what I think."
A Tough Path Through the Groups
Sneijder's comments follow Friday's group-stage draw in Washington, which handed England a challenging assignment in Group L alongside Croatia, Ghana, and Panama. The draw increases the degree of difficulty for the Three Lions, who will be seeking revenge against Croatia for their heartbreaking semi-final defeat at the 2018 tournament in Russia.
England's potential route through the knockout stages looks arduous. Finishing second in their group would likely lead to a tougher fixture against the runner-up from Group K, followed by a probable meeting with Spain, the favourites to win Group H.
The Dutch icon did leave the door slightly ajar for England, Argentina, and Germany, suggesting that with a slice of fortune or a return to form, they could yet make a deep run. "England can reach the semi-finals. Argentina too, with a bit of luck. If Germany gets back on track, who knows?" he added.
Notably, Sneijder also excluded the reigning champions, Argentina, from his final four, despite their dominant qualifying campaign. His predictions, made before knowing England's specific group draw, offer a frank assessment from a player who has experienced the highest pressure of World Cup football.
