Rooney backs England and Spain for 2026 World Cup final

As the world turns its attention toward the most ambitious FIFA World Cup in history, the atmosphere is thickening with anticipation and expert forecasts. Spanning three nations, the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the 2026 edition marks a significant evolution for the tournament, expanding to include a record-breaking 48 teams. Amidst the pre-tournament buzz, iconic former England captain Wayne Rooney has shared his vision for how the drama will unfold on the pitch.

Speaking as part of a panel of experts for the BBC, Rooney hasn't shied away from backing his home nation. The Manchester United legend believes that England has the depth and quality to navigate the expanded knockout stages and secure a place in the showpiece final. It is a bold call for a team that has frequently knocked on the door of international glory in recent years without quite seizing the ultimate prize.

Rooney’s prediction does not just focus on the Three Lions, however. He anticipates a repeat of high-level European dominance, forecasting that Spain will be the side standing between England and the trophy. La Roja have undergone a tactical resurgence lately, blending their traditional possession-based philosophy with a more direct attacking threat, making them a formidable opponent for any side in the draw.

This tournament represents a massive logistical undertaking, with matches scattered across diverse climates and time zones from Vancouver to Mexico City. The expanded format means the eventual winners will have to endure a grueling schedule, testing not just their starting elevens but the resilience of their entire squads. Rooney’s selection of two European heavyweights suggests he believes traditional footballing pedigree will overcome the challenges of the new format.

The prospect of an England versus Spain final is already igniting debates among supporters and pundits alike. Such a fixture would represent a clash of styles and a meeting of some of the brightest young talents in the global game. For England, it would be a chance to finally end decades of hurt on the world stage; for Spain, it would be an opportunity to cement a new golden era of dominance.

As the opening whistle approaches, Rooney’s comments add another layer of intrigue to a tournament that promises to be unlike any other. Whether the Three Lions can navigate the pressure of being favorites alongside the Spanish remains to be seen, but the stage is now set for a month of unpredictable, high-stakes football across North America.