Only ‘nasty’ Argentina capable of stopping France: Gary Neville makes explosive World Cup prediction

Former Manchester United and England defender Gary Neville has backed France as the favourites to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup but believes only one team has what it takes to stop them—defending champions Argentina.

Neville made the remarks while analysing France's dominant run in the tournament, following Les Bleus' convincing 3-0 victory over Sweden in the Round of 32. The performance further strengthened France's credentials as title favourites, with Kylian Mbappé once again leading the charge in a star-studded squad packed with attacking talent.

Speaking during ITV's World Cup coverage, Neville said France have looked "frightening" throughout the competition and are currently the strongest team left in the tournament. However, he singled out Argentina as the only nation capable of derailing Didier Deschamps' side.

"I think the only team that can stop France is Argentina because of their nastiness, horribleness, unity and experience," Neville said, suggesting those qualities give the reigning world champions a psychological edge over every other team.

Neville's comments underline the growing belief that a potential France-Argentina showdown could become the defining fixture of the tournament. The two nations have developed one of international football's most compelling rivalries in recent years, highlighted by Argentina's dramatic victory over France in the 2022 FIFA World Cup final.

France have impressed throughout the 2026 tournament with an unbeaten campaign, scoring freely while maintaining a solid defensive record. Led by Mbappé, alongside Bradley Barcola, Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise, Deschamps' side has emerged as one of the most complete teams in the competition.

Argentina, meanwhile, continue to carry the confidence of defending champions under Lionel Scaloni. Although their path through the knockout stages remains challenging, Neville believes their experience in high-pressure matches, combined with their aggressive and resilient style of play, makes them uniquely equipped to challenge France if the two teams eventually meet.

Neville also acknowledged that traditional contenders such as England, Spain and Portugal possess enough quality to make deep runs in the tournament. However, he suggested none of them currently display the same blend of cohesion, tournament know-how and competitive edge that Argentina bring to the biggest stage.

Bookmakers have also installed France as favourites to lift the trophy, with Argentina among the closest challengers. As the knockout phase progresses, the prospect of another blockbuster meeting between the last two world champions is already generating excitement among fans and pundits alike.

Whether Neville's prediction proves accurate will depend on how both teams navigate the remaining rounds, but his assessment has added another layer of intrigue to a tournament that has already produced several memorable moments.