Former Super Eagles captain Segun Odegbami has dismissed the chances of England, Germany and the Netherlands wins 2026 FIFA World Cupsupporting France and Argentina as the strongest contenders for the title.
The Nigerian football legend shared his assessment in his Vanguard newspaper column as the group stage draws to a close in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Despite England, Germany and the Netherlands progressing to the last 16 with impressive group stage campaigns, Odegbami believes each team has weaknesses that could prevent them from lifting the trophy on July 19.
Odegbami is questioned by European heavyweights
England qualified after beating Croatia 4-2 before being held to a draw by Ghana, while Germany topped Group E despite a surprise 2-1 defeat to Ecuador in their last game.
The Netherlands also finished top of Group F with seven points after registering wins over Sweden and Tunisia following their opening draw with Japan.
However, Odegbami said the three teams lacked the qualities needed to go all the way.
“Overall, as the final group stage games finish this weekend, a few teams have stood out to me, albeit temporarily – France, Argentina, Netherlands, Mexico.”
He was particularly critical of England, saying: “England don’t have enough big talent in their overrated squad.”
On Germany, he added: “Germany is loaded with a lot of young players and an aging goalkeeper. They can’t win big.”
The former Green Eagles captain also questioned the Dutch’s ability to deliver under pressure.
“The Netherlands are dangerous, they look good during this championship, but they don’t have the history and experience to get through the finish line unscathed.”
France is the favorite
Odegbami believes France have shown their strongest title after winning all three Group I matches.
Didier Deschamps’ side beat Senegal and Iraq before sealing top spot with a 4-1 win over Norway, led by Ousmane Dembele’s first-half hat-trick.
The former Nigeria international said France’s attacking quality gives them an advantage over the rest of the field.
“Where would I bet? It seems to me that France’s front line is a bit sharper, quicker and more inventive than everyone else. With Mbappe and Dembele, the French look unstoppable in most defences.
“I can’t wait for Group 32 to start! Then the men will be separated from the boys.”
