Overview
- Betting markets list Spain as 9/2 favorite, with England and France at 11/2, Argentina and Brazil at 8/1, Portugal at 10/1, and Germany at 12/1.
- Despite short odds, multiple outlets argue England are unlikely to win, citing poor records in hot climates, player fatigue, and heavy external pressure.
- Seven of the eight past champions will compete in North America after Italy failed to qualify again.
- Some previews flag longer-odds threats, highlighting Norway after a 37-goal qualifying run led by Erling Haaland and a still-strong Belgium squad.
- Researchers and analysts say fewer matches heighten randomness at World Cups, which can swing knockout games even when one side looks stronger on paper.