Top News

TRIBUNJAMBI.COM, JAMBI – The excitement for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is starting to build across Jambi Province.

The enthusiasm for the world’s biggest football tournament, which is set to take place from 11 June to 19 July 2026 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is also evident among regional officials who have each chosen their favourite teams.

Jambi Governor Al Haris has openly declared his support for Argentina.

According to him, the Albiceleste possess a blend of playing style, team chemistry, and strong character that make them worthy favourites.

“They’ve got the skill, the teamwork, and that Latin rhythm, so I’m a big fan of Argentina,” he said on Wednesday (3 June 2026).

Besides his admiration for Argentina’s football style, Al Haris also admitted to being a fan of several world-class players, both from Argentina and other nations.

Names like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Kylian Mbappe are among those who have caught his attention.

“I like strikers, that’s why I always look out for them,” he remarked.

He predicted that Argentina would advance at least to the top six in the 2026 World Cup.

In contrast, Batang Hari Regent and Chairman of the Jambi Province Football Association (Asprov PSSI Jambi), M Fadhil Arief, is backing two European giants – Germany and Spain.

He said both teams have consistently been his favourites every time the World Cup comes around.

Fadhil explained that his attachment to a team is not solely based on its titles or reputation but more on the quality of football it displays on the pitch.

“When it comes to a favourite team in the World Cup, as long as the team plays entertaining football, we will enjoy watching them,” he said.

According to Fadhil, Germany is a team known for its consistency, determination, and resilience in all match situations.

“I admire Germany because of their consistency, perseverance, and strength. No matter their position or the score, they stay composed,” he explained.

Besides Germany, he also appreciates Spain’s style of play, which allows players to freely express their creativity and individual skills.

“I also admire Spain for giving players the freedom to express themselves and showcase their footballing talent,” he added.

Fadhil predicted that both Germany and Spain could reach the semifinals.

“These two nations always have a special place in my heart. I believe both will make it to the semifinals,” he said.

When asked about who might lift the trophy, Fadhil placed his bet on Spain.

“For the champions, I predict Spain,” he stated firmly.

Beyond discussing his favourite teams, Fadhil also highlighted the strong public enthusiasm for the 2026 World Cup.

He mentioned that the Batang Hari Regency Government plans to facilitate public viewing events in several locations so residents can enjoy the matches together.

Meanwhile, Jambi City Secretary Ridwan has a different choice.

He is backing France as the team most likely to go far in the tournament.

According to Ridwan, Les Bleus remain a formidable side and deserve to be considered among the top contenders.

“France’s performance this year is very good. Personally, I’m rooting for France,” he said.

Ridwan revealed that in the previous edition, he supported Argentina. However, for the 2026 World Cup, his allegiance has shifted to France.

“In my opinion, France should at least make it to the semifinals,” he added.

He believes Kylian Mbappe will continue to be the key player capable of influencing the outcome of matches.

Besides Mbappe, the presence of players such as Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, Aurelien Tchouameni, and William Saliba further strengthens France’s chances.

According to him, France’s main strength lies in their quick attacking transitions, strong midfield quality, and solid defence.

Moreover, their squad depth ensures that performance levels remain consistent even with player rotations.

France’s experience from the past two World Cups, winning the title in 2018 and finishing as runners-up in 2022, also gives them valuable mental strength at the highest level.

Support for France also comes from Jambi City’s Head of Communications and Information Department, Saleh Rido.

He is confident that France will reach the final and possibly win the championship.

“France will go all the way to the final, maybe even lift the trophy,” said Saleh Rido confidently on Wednesday (3 June 2026).

He attributed his optimism mainly to Mbappe’s outstanding form.

“Mbappe is in incredible form right now. He’s the kind of player who can change a game at any moment,” he noted.

In addition to Mbappe’s influence, Saleh Rido also highlighted how the success of Paris Saint-Germain players in winning the UEFA Champions League for two consecutive seasons could positively impact the French national team.

Several PSG players like Ousmane Dembele, Bradley Barcola, Desire Doue, and Warren Zaire-Emery are key members of Didier Deschamps’ squad for the 2026 World Cup.

“With PSG winning the Champions League, that winning mentality carries over to the national team. Many of France’s players have already experienced success at Europe’s top level,” he said.

The 2026 World Cup marks the first edition to be hosted by three countries – the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

This tournament also sets a new record with an expanded format featuring 48 participating nations, up from the previous 32.

The 48 teams will be divided into 12 groups of four, with group winners, runners-up, and the eight best third-placed teams advancing to the round of 32.

Under this new format, a total of 104 matches will be played, making the 2026 World Cup the largest edition in FIFA history.