2026 World Cup: Mourinho Picks Portugal, England as Favourites to Win Trophy

Jose Mourinho has named Portugal and England as his leading contenders to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, praising both teams’ quality ahead of the Round of 32 stage.

Real Madrid manager, Jose Mourinho, has identified Portugal and England as his leading contenders to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup as the tournament approaches the Round of 32 stage.

The Portuguese tactician expressed confidence in the chances of his native Portugal while also maintaining his long-standing belief that England possess the quality required to challenge for football’s biggest prize.

Portugal are currently on the verge of securing qualification for the knockout stages of the competition. After opening their campaign with a 1-1 draw against DR Congo, Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates responded in impressive fashion with a dominant 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan in their second group match.

The result placed Portugal in a strong position ahead of their final Group K fixture against Colombia, with only a point needed to guarantee progression to the Round of 32.

Speaking during an appearance on the Beast Mode On Podcast hosted by former footballer Adebayo Akinfenwa, Mourinho said Portugal have all the ingredients necessary to go deep into the tournament.

When asked whether Portugal could win the World Cup, Mourinho replied: “They should. They are not alone. Of course there are other contenders.”

The former Chelsea, Manchester United and Real Madrid manager also singled out England as another major favourite despite previous disappointments on the international stage.

England began their World Cup campaign with an entertaining 4-2 victory over Croatia before being held to a goalless draw by Ghana in their second group match.

Mourinho noted that he has consistently backed England to challenge for major honours since the era of players such as David Beckham, Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard, John Terry and Rio Ferdinand.

“I always say England,” Mourinho stated.

“I look to the players, and we come from that generation, Lampard, Gerrard, Terry, Ferdinand and Beckham. Since then, I always say England, and then it doesn’t happen, but I always say England.”

The veteran coach’s comments come as several nations prepare for the decisive stages of the tournament, with fans and analysts debating which teams possess the quality, depth and experience to lift the World Cup trophy.

Portugal and England are both expected to be among the teams closely watched as the knockout rounds begin.