2026 World Cup: Experts Reveal the Top Contenders

Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup

According to Главком: With the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicking off on June 11, a panel of Ukrainian journalists, commentators, and analysts shared exclusive insights with 'Glavkom' on the questions fans are most curious about. Contributors Vitaliy Volochay, Maksym Hilenko, Vadym Skichko, Volodymyr Zvirov, and Andriy Bohdanov weighed in on topics ranging from Spain's chances and Lionel Messi's participation to the prospects of Brazil, England, Portugal, and Norway, as well as potential tournament surprises and their personal favorites.

Discussion of Tournament Participants

Messi's decision to play in the 2026 tournament sparked diverse opinions among the experts. Vitaliy Volochay noted that

“he was called up, he is an active player, and Argentina really needs him”

– Vitaliy Volochay. Maksym Hilenko agreed, stating that Messi is

“in excellent shape”

– Maksym Hilenko, while Vadym Skichko added that

“everything is fine with him at Inter Miami”

– Vadym Skichko. However, Andriy Bohdanov expressed doubts, remarking that

“only the World Cup will show whether it was a mistake or not”

– Andriy Bohdanov.

When discussing Brazil's chances, the experts highlighted the team's inconsistency. Volochay argued that

“Brazil is not impressive in midfield or on the defensive flanks”

– Vitaliy Volochay, and Skichko noted that

“it might be due to a lack of balance”

– Vadym Skichko. In contrast, Hilenko pointed to the squad's strong players who could drive success, stating that

“a semifinal appearance would not be surprising”

– Maksym Hilenko. Yet Bohdanov expressed uncertainty about the team, citing

“the Neymar case”

– Andriy Bohdanov.

Regarding England and Portugal, the experts were more optimistic. Vitaliy Volochay believes that

“England will not fail”

– Vitaliy Volochay, thanks to their new coach. Skichko even made a bold prediction that

“England will perform well and even compete for the championship”

– Vadym Skichko. Meanwhile, Hilenko was skeptical about Portugal, suggesting that

“they are more likely to fail than England”

– Maksym Hilenko.

Norway also drew attention, as the team has posted strong results in recent matches. Hilenko noted that

“based on what Norway has shown over the last year and a half, they should reach the playoffs”

– Maksym Hilenko, and Zvirov believes that

“the Norwegians will at least make the quarterfinals”

– Volodymyr Zvirov.

Among potential tournament surprises, the experts debated the outcomes of smaller national teams. Volochay, Hilenko, Skichko, Zvirov, and Bohdanov offered varying views on which squads could cause upsets. For instance, Skichko listed

• Turkey
• Japan
• Mexico

as possible dark horses.

In closing, the experts shared their feelings about Ukraine's absence from the tournament. Volochay stated that

“the World Cup with and without our team are two different tournaments”

– Vitaliy Volochay, while Bohdanov noted that

“I will deeply miss Ukraine at this championship”

– Andriy Bohdanov. Despite Ukraine not qualifying, all those surveyed plan to watch the matches, including Zvirov, who will work as a commentator at the event and promises to view every game.

Overall, the Ukrainian experts offered a range of perspectives on the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, focusing on key factors that could shape team outcomes. This discussion reflects not only sporting expectations but also the emotional connection fans have with the Ukrainian national team, which missed out on the tournament, underscoring the country's significance in the global football landscape.

As the excitement builds for the upcoming World Cup, it's essential to reflect on recent events that have impacted teams like Ukraine. Their recent loss to Sweden has significant implications for their World Cup aspirations, highlighting the challenges they face on the road to 2026. For a deeper understanding of Ukraine's current standing and what it means for their future, read more about the match and its consequences here.