The 2026 World Cup kicks off Thursday with Mexico facing South Africa, launching 104 matches across North America. ESPN’s 19 contributors voted, and Spain and France dominated the winner’s poll, each earning 16 of 19 votes. Spain appeared on every ballot, while Argentina, despite a strong showing in 2022, received no champion votes.

Writers highlighted Lamine Yamal as the likely best young player, with 13 of 19 polls naming him for the award and five backing him for the Golden Ball. France’s Kylian Mbappé emerged as the top scorer favorite, securing seven Golden Boot votes and three for the overall best player. Underdog picks varied, but Japan, Ecuador, Norway and Colombia each earned multiple endorsements for a deep run.

The consensus on surprise eliminations pointed to the Netherlands and Uruguay, whose group draws and recent form raise doubts. Fans can expect Spain’s fluid attacking trio and Norway’s Haaland‑led surge to provide the tournament’s most entertaining moments, while host nations grapple with altitude and pressure.