“I’m backing France”: Super Eagles’ Calvin Bassey names his 2026 World Cup favorite.

With the 2026 World Cup just days away, Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey has made his pick for who’s going to lift the trophy and it’s not Spain or defending champions Argentina.

The Fulham and Nigeria center back took part in a fun Q&A session organized by his Premier League club, where players were asked to predict this summer’s winner. While a few teammates backed their own countries, Bassey joined the majority in choosing France.

Yes, Les Bleus.

Bassey, who will be watching from home after Nigeria failed to qualify, believes Didier Deschamps’ side has what it takes to go all the way. And honestly, it’s hard to argue. France is stacked: Kylian Mbappé, Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise, and PSG’s young guns Doué and Barcola. They’re deep, balanced, and dangerous.

But there’s an extra layer to this tournament for France. Deschamps has already announced he’ll step down after the World Cup. So the squad isn’t just playing for a third star they’re playing to send their legendary manager off in style.

The 2026 World Cup is historic for other reasons too: first ever three nation host (USA, Canada, Mexico) and the first with 48 teams. Argentina and Spain are still huge threats, but for Bassey, the smart money is on France.

Too bad the Super Eagles won’t be there. Still, you can bet Bassey will be watching closely when the action kicks off June 11.