England legend Gary Lineker has declared that only two teams—Argentina and Spain—stand a chance of stopping France from winning the 2026 World Cup. Speaking on The Rest is Football, Lineker described France as 'breathtaking' and said it would be 'incredibly difficult for any team to compete with them, never mind beat them.'
France Dominates Group Stage
France booked their place in the last-16 with a commanding 3-0 victory over Sweden on Tuesday night. Didier Deschamps' side have been arguably the most impressive team of the tournament, having beaten Senegal, Iraq, and Norway in the group stage while scoring ten goals. They face Paraguay in the round of 16 after the South American side stunned Germany in the previous round.
Lineker's Assessment
Lineker praised France's depth, highlighting stars like Kylian Mbappe, Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembele, Bradley Barcola, Desire Doue, and Rayan Cherki. 'You just think it's hard to look beyond them unless they pick up a couple of injuries to the superstars because they're just breathtaking,' he said. He added that France are 'really together' despite historical concerns about internal discord.
Lineker predicted a likely semi-final clash with Spain, noting that Spain 'haven't looked great so far' but could 'grow into the tournament.' He said Spain 'would have some kind of chance if they find the form of two years ago.' However, he identified Argentina as the primary threat, suggesting a repeat of the 2022 World Cup final: 'I would say Argentina are the ones. It will be very difficult for England, I have to say. I'm feeling like there will be a replay of the final in Qatar from four years ago.'
England's Chances Dismissed
England, who beat Croatia 4-2 in their opener, were held to a goalless draw by Ghana and secured an unconvincing victory over Panama. Thomas Tuchel's side narrowly avoided elimination against DR Congo, with Harry Kane scoring two late goals to secure a 2-1 win. They face co-hosts Mexico in the last-16 on Monday. Lineker dismissed England's chances, stating, 'It will be very difficult for England.'
Gary Neville Agrees
Former Manchester United and England defender Gary Neville echoed Lineker's sentiments on ITV, saying, 'The only team I can see stopping France right now, because of the mentality, is Argentina. Just because of the nastiness and the horribleness and their experience. That's the only team I can see that's got the unity right now that I think could stand in front of France.' Neville added that England, Spain, and Portugal might improve as the tournament progresses.
