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MAKASSAR – The Deputy Chairman of the South Sulawesi Regional Leadership Council of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP), Iqbal Arifin, has expressed his belief that the England national football team will emerge as champions at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to take place from 11 June to 19 July 2026, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

This global football event will feature a record 48 participating nations, making it the largest tournament in World Cup history.

The PDIP politician said he is confident that the Three Lions can end their long wait for a world title, supported by a squad filled with top-class talent.

One of the main reasons Iqbal is backing England is the outstanding form of Harry Kane, who has been sensational for Bayern Munich throughout the 2025/2026 season.

Harry Kane is widely regarded as one of the best strikers in the world today.

“His goal-scoring ability, vision, and leadership on the pitch are major assets for England,” said Iqbal Arifin when met at Jl Boulevard No.36–42, Masale, Panakkukang District, Makassar City, on Sunday afternoon (31 May 2026).

Kane has indeed been on fire for Bayern Munich this season.

The 32-year-old striker ended the campaign with an incredible record of 61 goals in 51 appearances across all competitions.

In addition, the England captain scored a hat-trick in the DFB-Pokal final, helping Bayern Munich defeat Stuttgart 3–0.

According to Iqbal, Kane’s impressive form will be a crucial factor for England as they aim to lift the World Cup trophy.

He believes the sharpness of the former Tottenham Hotspur forward will pose a serious threat to any opponent England faces in the 2026 World Cup.

“Seeing Harry Kane’s current form, I’m very confident that England can make a strong impact. He’s at the peak of his game right now,” he added.

Iqbal also shared that he has always dreamed of seeing the Indonesian national team compete in the World Cup since childhood.

However, that dream remains unfulfilled as the Garuda squad failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup finals.

As a result, he has chosen to support England as his favourite team in the upcoming four-yearly tournament.

“Actually, I wanted to support Indonesia. But since Indonesia did not qualify for the World Cup, I decided to back England instead,” he stated.

Iqbal believes England possesses a well-balanced squad across all positions.

In addition to Harry Kane, the Three Lions boast numerous players who are key figures at top European clubs.

He noted that the blend of experienced players and young talent makes England one of the strongest contenders for the world title.

Interestingly, Iqbal, who is known as a loyal Liverpool supporter, said he does not mind the lack of Liverpool players in the current England squad.

In fact, for the first time in nearly 40 years, no Liverpool player has been called up to the England national team for an official competition.

The last time such a situation occurred was during the 1986 World Cup in Mexico when coach Bobby Robson did not select any Liverpool players.

Despite that, Iqbal still holds high hopes for England to achieve great success.

He hopes that Harry Kane can carry his brilliant form from Bayern Munich to the World Cup stage and lead England to the championship.

“I’m confident England have a great chance, especially with Harry Kane performing extraordinarily this season. Hopefully, England can win the 2026 World Cup,” he concluded.