Smart Computer Predicts World Cup 2026 Champion

The semifinal bracket was finalized when Argentina, the reigning champions, defeated Switzerland 3–1 after extra time. Earlier, England overcame Norway 2–1 in another exhausting match that stretched to 120 minutes. France had already secured their place by beating Morocco 2–0, while Spain followed with a narrow 2–1 victory over Belgium.

After running nearly 25,000 simulations, the Opta supercomputer predicted France, led by Kylian Mbappé, as the most likely winners. France’s probability of lifting the trophy stood at 34.05%, a clear lead over the other contenders. Should this prediction hold true, France would celebrate their third World Cup triumph, adding to their victories in 1998 and 2018.

Spain ranked second with a 23.45% chance, England third with 21.94%, and Argentina surprisingly last with 20.55%, despite being the defending champions.

Winning Probabilities (Opta Computer):

• France: 34.05%

For the semifinals, Opta projected France to defeat Spain with a 57.7% likelihood compared to Spain’s 43.3%. In the other clash, England were given a razor-thin edge over Argentina, with probabilities of 50.94% versus 49.06%.

Semifinal Schedule (Mecca & Doha Time):

• Tuesday, July 14, 2026: France vs Spain at Dallas Stadium, 22:00.

The winners will face off in the grand final on Sunday at 22:00 in New Jersey. The third-place playoff between the losing sides will take place in Miami the night before, at midnight.