Opta Supercomputer Picks Argentina as Top Contender for 2026 World Cup

First Round of 32 Matchup Confirmed

According to Главком: The opening fixture in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been set: Canada will face South Africa. The match is scheduled for June 28 in Inglewood, USA, kicking off at 10:00 PM Kyiv time. This marks the first time either team has reached this stage of the tournament, as neither had previously advanced to the Round of 16.

Tournament Favorites

The 2026 World Cup is being hosted across three nations-the United States, Canada, and Mexico-making it a landmark event in soccer history. According to the Opta supercomputer, Argentina currently leads the pack with a 15.46% chance of lifting the trophy.

• France – 15.06%
• Spain – 12.48%
• England – 9.48%
• Portugal – 6.71%
• Germany – 6.60%
• Norway – 5.42%
• Brazil – 4.56%
• Netherlands – 4.26%
• United States – 4.07%

Interestingly, Opta’s predictions have shifted throughout the tournament. Before kickoff, Spain was considered the favorite, but after the first round of group-stage matches, France took the top spot. It will be compelling to see how these odds evolve as the competition progresses.

The 2026 World Cup is a milestone for global soccer, being the first edition to span three host countries simultaneously. This setup aims to attract a broader fan base and intensify competition among teams. The upcoming Round of 32 clash between Canada and South Africa represents a pivotal moment for both squads, offering them a chance to prove their mettle on the international stage.

As the excitement builds for the upcoming matches, fans are eager to learn more about the tournament's key encounters. For instance, the match between Mexico and South Africa on June 11 promises to be a thrilling opener, showcasing the competitive spirit of these teams. To find out more about this exciting clash and its implications for the tournament, check out our detailed preview here.