Goldman Sachs tips France to win 2026 World Cup as preparations finalize
Goldman Sachs tips France to win the 2026 World Cup, as national teams finalize preparations for the tournament kicking off next week.
The investment bank’s predictive model identifies France as the most likely winner of the upcoming World Cup, which begins on 11 June in the United States, according to *Courrier International* . While the bank’s analysis suggests Les Bleus hold the edge, it cautions that football’s inherent unpredictability could upend expectations.
France’s status as favorites is underscored by President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to the national team ahead of their departure. The visit, reported by *France 24*, marks the final major tournament for head coach Didier Deschamps, who has led the team for 14 years . Deschamps’ squad, a blend of experienced stars and emerging talent, remains one of the most closely watched teams in the competition.
Germany’s national team, meanwhile, has drawn optimism from its departure point. The *Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung* notes that the DFB-Elf’s final pre-tournament stop in Frankfurt—where they also gathered before their 2014 World Cup triumph—has been framed as a good omen . The team left for the U.S. from Frankfurt on Tuesday, with hopes high for a repeat of their past success.
Other nations are navigating last-minute challenges. Haiti’s Woodensky Pierre, the only member of the national team based in the Caribbean, received his U.S. visa on Monday after delays under the Trump administration, clearing the way for his participation, *The Independent* reports . Meanwhile, Dutch fans have been warned by the U.S. Embassy to brace for lengthy passport lines and potential social media checks upon arrival .
Japan, profiled by *The Guardian*, enters the tournament with growing confidence. Manager Hajime Moriyasu’s side has impressed in recent matches, fueling belief they can compete with—and defeat—the world’s best teams . The team’s preparation has been bolstered by a series of strong performances, positioning them as potential dark horses.
With the tournament less than 10 days away, the final pieces are falling into place. The 48-team field, the largest in World Cup history, will open play on 11 June, with the final set for 19 July in New York.
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- courrier international
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