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TRIBUN-MEDAN.com, MEDAN – PSMS Medan head coach Eko Purdjianto is backing defending champions Argentina to lift the trophy once again at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada from 12 June to 20 July.

According to Eko, Argentina remains one of the strongest national teams in the world today.

He believes that the Albiceleste still possess top-quality players, as many of them play in elite leagues across Europe and South America.

For the 2026 World Cup, Argentina will bring a 26-man squad and are placed in Group J alongside Algeria, Austria, and Jordan.

Eko thinks that their status as the reigning champions makes Argentina the top favourite to once again lift the World Cup trophy.

"Yes, Argentina are still a strong contender to win the title again because they have many quality players competing in Europe and America. Especially with Messi still in the squad. That’s why I believe they have a good chance to defend their title," Eko said.

However, the former assistant coach of the Indonesian national team acknowledged that Argentina’s journey will not be easy. He mentioned that major footballing nations such as England, Spain, and Brazil have an equal chance to go far in the tournament and pose serious threats to Lionel Messi and his teammates.

According to him, these three nations have a strong footballing tradition and are filled with talented players who regularly feature in top-tier European competitions.

"England, Spain, and Brazil will be tough opponents for Argentina because they are former world champions and have squads full of highly skilled players with exceptional playing styles. Many of their players compete in Europe," he explained.

Eko specifically predicted that Spain could potentially meet Argentina in the final. He observed that Spain’s rejuvenation process has been progressing very well in recent years.

He noted that many young Spanish players have been gaining regular playing time with their clubs, making them increasingly experienced and ready to compete at the highest level.

"My prediction is that Argentina will face Spain in the final. Their young generation keeps playing regularly at their clubs. That’s why I believe they can give Argentina a tough challenge," he said.

In addition to squad depth, Eko also emphasised that the presence of captain Lionel Messi continues to make a major difference for Argentina.

He believes Messi’s experience as a world champion and his leadership qualities will have a significant influence on the Albiceleste’s campaign in the tournament.

"Messi is still playing, and Argentina still have many players dominating European leagues. As for Messi, we all know his experience as a world champion. He’s a senior player with a star aura that can inspire Argentina. That could be their biggest strength," Eko concluded.