World Cup 2026 betting heats up as Spain leads the futures board, Brazil offers value, and bettors eye Golden Boot and dark-horse markets
We’re one week out from the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with cities in Mexico, the U.S., and Canada prepping for the onslaught of crowds and traffic congestion that’s coming up fast.
The tournament runs through July 19, in what will be the largest World Cup ever, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches. The final will be played at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
In the World Cup betting at Betway, France and Spain are co-betting favorites to win the tournament, at +500, followed by England at +650, Argentina, Brazil, and Portugal at +900, then Germany at +1400.
Kylian Mbappe is the betting favorite for World Cup top scorer, at +550, followed by Harry Kane at +700, Lionel Messi at +1200, Erling Haaland at +1400, and Mikel Oyarzabal at +1400.
Spain is a legitimate favorite for several reasons – they’re reigning European champions (UEFA European Championship 2024), with a great combination of midfield control, squad depth, and young stars like Lamine Yamal, Pedri and Rodri.
Yamal is one of the most dangerous young players in soccer, with an ability to produce goals and assists in big moments. Pedri’s vision, intelligence and ability to control tempo allow Spain to dominate possession.
Rodri is one of the world’s best defensive midfielders.
Led by Mbappe and William Saliba, France has the deepest roster in the tournament, and are -139 to reach the quarter-final, along with Spain and England, also both at -139 at Betway.
Brazil is good value at +900 to win it all, since their talent level is elite, led by Vinicius Junior.
Norway is a long shot at +2800, however led by Haaland, they are very capable of wrecking a bracket.
That 48-team format is one of the reasons that research firm Eilers & Krejcik Gaming (EKG) is projecting that World Cup betting handle could top $4 billion – more matches, more teams, a tournament on home soil for three nations, and more sports betting platforms to choose from.
So, more games mean more potential upsets.
If you’re looking to sprinkle some money on other long shots, take a look at Netherlands, undervalued at +2000, with Virgil van Dijk’s leadership, Ryan Gravenberch’s midfield control, and attackers like Cody Gakpo.
They are experienced, having reached the quarterfinals in 2022, and are in a manageable Group F with Japan, Tunisia, and Sweden.
Best bets for teams to reach the quarterfinals are Netherlands (+140), Colombia (+210), and Germany (+140), with a talented young core (Musiala, Wirtz, and Kimmich) in easy Group E.
