Not Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal: Lionel Messi surprisingly names four contenders who could threaten Argentina at the 2026 World Cup

Lionel Messi guided effectively Argentina in maintaining their status as one of the best national teams in the world. Since winning the 2021 Copa America, they have triumphed in every official tournament they have competed in. Consequently, they are considered top candidates for the World Cup 2026. Still, Messi has identified four national teams that could challenge their path, surprisingly leaving out Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal.

“Winning (the 2022 World Cup) has lifted a huge burden from our shoulders. Playing without that pressure is a relief, but at the same time it guarantees nothing, because everyone wants to beat the world champion.” There are very good national teams – Spain, France, England, Brazil, who have not been champions for a while and want to win again, and also Germany,” Lionel Messi said via ESPN SportsCenter.

Although Portugal is still one of the most competitive teams in Europethey are still not considered World Cup title contenders. Not only did they win the 2016 European Championship, but they are also two-time Nations League champions. In addition, Coach Roberto Martinez has successfully consolidated a roster experienced players like Cristiano Ronaldo combine with the youthful talents of Vitinha and Nuno Mendes, creating a well-balanced team.

Both Spain and France have managed to impose themselves in UEFA competitions with surprising consistency, making their appearance on Lionel Messi’s list of top contenders unsurprising as they have also won titles in recent years. However, the appearance of Germany and Brazil on the list raises serious doubts as neither national team manages to shine consistentlywhich even raises questions about their competitiveness.

Lionel Messi gives a bold look at Argentina’s 2026 World Cup hopes

Despite strong performances from Colombia and Ecuador in the CONMEBOL 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Argentina established itself as the most dominant teamand finished nine points ahead of the second-placed team. Furthermore, Lionel Messi remained the top scorer in the qualifiers, further cementing their position as top contenders. With this in mind, the 38-year-old star discussed his national team’s chances of winning the title again.

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“The truth is that we have extraordinary players, and that has been proven for years – especially the longing and excitement since then [Lionel] Scaloni took over… The mentality that everyone has. It is a team full of winners, with a strong mentality, who want to win more, and that is contagious… New players keep appearing; apart from those that are already there…Argentina must take advantage of this moment. Winning the World Cup gives you confidence,” Lionel Messi said via ESPN.

Lionel Messi is not only quite positive about his team’s chances of repeating their World Cup title victory, but… he also leaves his participation in the tournament open. Making its current form a key condition, the veteran stated that he only wants to participate in the tournament if he believes he can contribute to the team. If he starts the MLS season with the same vigor as this season, the Argentinian could be in the 2026 World Cup.