As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches its final stages, anticipation is mounting for the championship match, set to take place at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19. With only two teams remaining, the latest odds indicate that France and Argentina are the frontrunners to reach the final.
Why it matters: The 2026 FIFA World Cup is a major sporting event and a celebration of global unity through soccer. The fan culture surrounding the tournament highlights the sport's ability to bring people together.
Philadelphia, having hosted its last match before July 5, has seen a surge in local festivities, keeping the spirit of the World Cup alive.
The final match is expected to be one of the biggest sporting events ever held in the U.S., drawing fans from around the world.
The odds of reaching the final showcase the competitive nature of the tournament, with several strong teams vying for glory.
Driving the news: As of July 5, the odds to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup final have been released, with France leading at -120, followed closely by Argentina at +170 and England at +175. Spain, Portugal, and other teams are also in contention.
England and Norway saw their odds improve significantly after recent wins, with England defeating Mexico 3-2 and Norway upsetting Brazil.
England’s victory marked their qualification for the World Cup quarterfinals for the 11th time, making them one of the most successful teams in World Cup history.
Norway’s odds surged from +1400 to +420 after their unexpected win against Brazil, setting up a highly anticipated quarterfinal matchup against England.
The big picture: The 2026 World Cup has already produced memorable moments, including Croatia's surprising run in 2018, where they reached the final as a long shot at 30-1 odds. This year, Croatia was eliminated after a heartbreaking loss to Portugal.
Fans are eager to witness a potential rematch between France and Argentina, reminiscent of their epic showdown in the 2022 final, which many regard as one of the greatest matches in World Cup history.
The odds suggest that both France and Argentina are favorites to meet again, adding to the excitement ahead of the final.
What they're saying: Fans attending the FIFA Fan Festival in Philadelphia expressed their enthusiasm for the event and the atmosphere it creates.
“I’m so glad that the fan festival is continuing even though there are no more games in Philly,” said local resident Taylor Johnson, highlighting the festival's role in fostering community.
Brady Cooper, visiting from New York City, noted, “Came for a game with my friends, sticking around for the fan fest,” emphasizing how the festival encourages fans to extend their stay.
International visitors like Tom Carstensen from Germany remarked on the festival's ability to unite people, saying, “It’s just amazing to see so many people come together.”
By the numbers: The odds for various teams to reach the World Cup final are as follows:
France: -120
Argentina: +170
England: +175
Spain: +310
Portugal: +750
Colombia: +800
Morocco: +1100
USA: +1400
Norway: +1400
Switzerland: +1900
Belgium: +2000
Egypt: +6000
Between the lines: The festival at Lemon Hill in Fairmount Park, which drew thousands on July 5, showcases the enduring appeal of soccer beyond the matches themselves.
The festival closed early due to storms but remained a popular gathering spot for fans to celebrate the sport.
Organizers plan to keep the FIFA Fan Festival open through July 19, allowing fans to continue enjoying the festivities even after Philadelphia's matches have concluded.
Visitors have expressed a desire to return to Fairmount Park, indicating the positive impression the festival has made.
What's next: As the tournament progresses, fans are gearing up for the quarterfinals and the final showdown on July 19.
England will face Norway in a highly anticipated quarterfinal match, with both teams riding high on recent victories.
The excitement surrounding the potential rematch between France and Argentina is building, as fans eagerly await the final.
With the FIFA Fan Festival continuing through the end of the tournament, attendees can expect a vibrant atmosphere celebrating soccer and camaraderie.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup continues to captivate fans worldwide, with thrilling matches and a festival atmosphere uniting people across cultures. As the tournament moves toward its climax, the excitement surrounding the final and the celebrations in Philadelphia highlight the true spirit of soccer.