Iker Casillas downplays Argentina, explains why Spain can win World Cup 2026

Former Spain and Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas has ignited debate by downplaying Argentina's status as the world's top team. Casillas, a 2010 World Cup winner, asserted that Brazil, with its five titles, holds a stronger claim to that distinction than the current reigning champions, Argentina.

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But the best team cannot be Argentina. Brazil is a five-time world champion.

During a discussion on Azteca Deportes, Casillas was firm in his assessment. When challenged that Argentina might be considered the best, he countered, "But the best team cannot be Argentina. Brazil is a five-time world champion." He further elaborated, "Of course. It's evident. The five-time champion is Brazil. Not Argentina. Nor Uruguay nor Spain."

The conversation then shifted to the current tournament and Spain's prospects. Casillas expressed confidence in "La Roja," suggesting they could surpass Argentina and France in the standings. In a bold prediction for a hypothetical final showdown, he declared, "I know Mr. Valdano is an analyst and may get angry, but Mr. Valdano knows that if right now a Spain-Argentina happens in the final... Spain is the favorite for that final."

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Of course. It's evident. The five-time champion is Brazil. Not Argentina. Nor Uruguay nor Spain.

Spain is preparing to face Belgium in the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals. The Spanish team advanced after a narrow 1-0 victory over Portugal, with Mikel Merino scoring the decisive goal. Belgium, meanwhile, enters the match after a dominant 4-1 win against the United States in the previous round, featuring goals from Charles De Ketelaere, Hans Vanaken, and Romelu Lukaku.

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I know Mr. Valdano is an analyst and may get angry, but Mr. Valdano knows that if right now a Spain-Argentina happens in the final... Spain is the favorite for that final.