ESPN analysts issue specific wagers for every 2026 World Cup entrant
Victoria Matiash and Liz Loza provide one recommended bet per squad, citing DraftKings Sportsbook odds and squad fitness concerns.
ESPN has released a comprehensive betting preview for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, offering one specific wager for each of the 48 participating teams. The tournament is scheduled to begin on Thursday, 5 June 2026, and conclude on 19 July 2026, featuring 104 matches. The preview, authored by Victoria Matiash and Liz Loza, provides odds and analysis for teams across all groups, including predictions for top scorers, match outcomes, and tournament progression for sides such as Brazil, Spain, Argentina, and England.
The article provides one specific wager for each of the 48 participating teams, with odds sourced from DraftKings Sportsbook. Key predictions include Brazil as heavy favourites to win Group C, Spain to win all group games, and England to reach the semifinal. The preview covers group predictions, top scorer prospects, and potential squad issues, such as injuries to key players like Lionel Messi and Alphonso Davies.
Specific player props are highlighted, including Kylian Mbappé as an early frontrunner for FIFA Player of the Tournament and Erling Haaland as a dark horse for the top scorer title. The text references the 2025-26 Premier League season statistics, noting Raúl Jiménez as the highest-scoring Mexican player in EPL history with 68 goals. The preview includes specific betting recommendations for all 48 teams, covering outcomes such as group winners, runners-up, top scorers, and match-specific props.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the first tournament to feature 48 teams, expanded from the previous 32-team format. The tournament will be hosted across three North American nations: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Previous World Cup history is referenced, including Brazil’s qualification for every iteration (22 prior tournaments) and Spain’s status as reigning European Champions.
Historical context is provided for teams returning after long absences, such as South Korea’s 11th consecutive appearance and Czechia’s first appearance in 20 years. The article notes political and logistical challenges for Iran, including cross-border travel from Mexico and security concerns. The content involves sports betting recommendations and odds, which may require age verification or responsible gambling disclaimers depending on jurisdiction.
