Why Portugal Could Be the Biggest Surprise of FIFA World Cup 2026: Marcel Desailly Backs Cristiano Ronaldo’s Side for a Historic Run

Every FIFA World Cup produces a storyline that few people expect. Sometimes it is an underdog reaching the latter stages, while other times it is a talented team finally fulfilling its enormous potential. Ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, former France defender Marcel Desailly believes Portugal could be the nation that captures the world’s attention.

Although Portugal enters the tournament as one of the favorites rather than a traditional underdog, Desailly believes the quality throughout their squad is still being underestimated compared to teams like France, Argentina, Brazil, and Spain. His assessment reflects the growing belief that Portugal may possess one of the most balanced and complete squads in international football.

With cristiano Ronaldo preparing for what is expected to be his final FIFA World Cup, a world-class midfield entering its prime years, and several attacking stars capable of changing matches instantly, Portugal has emerged as one of the most fascinating teams heading into the tournament.

Why Marcel Desailly Sees Portugal as a Potential Tournament Surprise

Desailly’s comments are significant because they come from one of football’s most respected voices. As a World Cup winner with France and one of the greatest defenders of his generation, he understands what separates contenders from champions.

According to Desailly, Portugal’s greatest strength lies in the quality of players available throughout the national team setup. Unlike previous generations that relied heavily on individual brilliance, the current squad possesses depth across nearly every position.

Modern World Cups are rarely won by teams with strong starting lineups alone. Success often depends on squad depth, tactical flexibility, and the ability to adapt during difficult moments. Portugal appears well-equipped in all three areas.

The Midfield That Could Define Portugal’s World Cup Journey

If there is one department where Portugal can compete with any nation in the tournament, it is midfield.

The combination of Vitinha, Joao Neves, Bruno Fernandes, and Bernardo Silva provides a blend of creativity, intelligence, technical quality, and tactical awareness that few teams can match.

In tournament football, controlling midfield battles often determines who advances deep into the knockout rounds. Portugal’s midfield not only offers technical excellence but also tactical adaptability against different styles of opponents.

The Cristiano Ronaldo Factor Cannot Be Ignored

Every major tournament involving Cristiano Ronaldo carries additional significance, but FIFA World Cup 2026 feels particularly special.

At 41 years old, Ronaldo is preparing for what will likely be the final World Cup appearance of his legendary career. While he may no longer possess the explosive pace that defined his younger years, he remains one of football’s most dangerous finishers inside the penalty area.

His influence extends beyond goals. Ronaldo brings leadership, experience, professionalism, and a winning mentality that younger players can learn from during high-pressure moments.

World Cups are often shaped by emotion as much as tactics. The desire to help Ronaldo achieve the one major trophy missing from his collection could provide additional motivation for the entire Portuguese squad.

Portugal’s Attack Has More Than Just Ronaldo

One of the biggest differences between this Portuguese team and some previous versions is the number of attacking options available.

Rafael Leao offers pace, power, and unpredictability on the wing. Joao Felix brings creativity and technical ability in advanced areas. Together, they provide Portugal with multiple ways to break down opposing defenses.

The presence of these players reduces pressure on Ronaldo while making Portugal less predictable offensively.

If Leao and Felix consistently perform at their highest level, Portugal could possess one of the tournament’s most dangerous attacking units.

Portugal’s Path Through the Group Stage

Portugal has been placed in a competitive group featuring Congo, Uzbekistan, and Colombia.

While none of the matches can be taken lightly, Portugal enters each fixture as one of the stronger teams on paper.

Finishing first in the group could provide a more favorable knockout path, making early performances extremely important.

Portugal has the quality to top the group, but consistency will be essential throughout the opening phase of the tournament.

How Portugal Compares to Other Favorites

While Portugal is receiving considerable attention, they still enter the tournament behind several traditional favorites in many predictions.

Argentina arrives as the defending champion, France continues to possess one of the deepest squads in football, Spain boasts exceptional technical talent, and Brazil remains a perennial contender.

However, Portugal’s squad depth compares favorably with any of those teams.

• Elite midfield quality.
• Experienced leadership.
• Strong defensive options.
• Multiple attacking threats.
• Tactical flexibility.
• Winning experience at international level.

These qualities explain why many analysts believe Portugal has the tools required to compete for the trophy.

Desailly’s Confidence in France Remains Strong

Although Desailly identified Portugal as a potential surprise package, he remains highly optimistic about France’s chances.

Les Bleus have established themselves as one of the dominant forces in international football over the last decade. Reaching consecutive World Cup finals highlights the consistency and quality within the French setup.

France enters FIFA World Cup 2026 with expectations of another deep run, and Desailly believes they possess enough talent to reach at least the semifinals.

The squad continues to feature a blend of experienced stars and emerging talents capable of influencing matches at the highest level.

The Leadership Discussion Around Kylian Mbappe

One of Desailly’s most interesting observations concerned Kylian Mbappe’s leadership role within the French national team.

Despite the presence of other world-class players, France appears united behind Mbappe as its primary leader.

This clarity can be extremely valuable in tournament football. Teams often perform better when leadership responsibilities are clearly established and accepted by the squad.

Desailly suggested that France does not face internal issues regarding leadership hierarchy, allowing the team to focus entirely on performance.

What Makes Portugal Different From Previous Generations?

Historically, Portugal has produced some of football’s greatest individual talents. However, previous generations often lacked the overall depth required to sustain success throughout a World Cup.

The current squad appears different.

Portugal now possesses quality options in defense, midfield, and attack. Young players are emerging regularly, ensuring competition for places remains high.

This depth allows the coaching staff to rotate players, adapt tactics, and respond effectively to injuries or suspensions during the tournament.

In modern football, such flexibility can be the difference between elimination and championship success.

Prediction: Why Portugal Could Reach the Final

Several factors suggest Portugal could be one of the biggest stories of FIFA World Cup 2026.

First, they possess one of the strongest midfields in the competition. Second, they have a proven goalscorer and leader in Cristiano Ronaldo. Third, their younger players are entering the peak years of their careers.

Perhaps most importantly, Portugal combines experience with hunger. The veterans understand the pressure of major tournaments, while younger players bring energy and ambition.

That combination often proves powerful during World Cup campaigns.

Conclusion

Marcel Desailly’s prediction that Portugal could surprise the world at FIFA World Cup 2026 is supported by far more than sentiment. Portugal enters the tournament with a balanced squad, elite midfield talent, experienced leaders, and one of football’s greatest players pursuing one final dream.

While France, Argentina, Spain, and Brazil remain among the favorites, Portugal possesses all the qualities required to challenge for the biggest prize in international football. If their key players deliver in crucial moments and the squad maintains its consistency, the team Desailly believes can surprise everyone may ultimately emerge as one of the tournament’s strongest contenders.

As the World Cup begins, Portugal stands on the verge of a potentially historic journey—one that could transform a talented generation into legends of the game.