07/11/2022【Feature】Hierro: Spain favoured to win their 2nd WC

Fernando Hierro - WC

Fernando Hierro is the best defender in the history of Real Madrid and Spanish football. He played 89 times for Spain and scored 29 goals. In addition to those club triumphs, he also appeared in 1990, 1994, 1998, 2002 and 2018 World Cup, and 1996 and 2000 Euro Championship for Spain.

Spain to be crowned world champions

This is a unique World Cup to be played in the middle of the European season which, naturally, is strange for everyone involved but I’m sure once the first ball is kicked it will, as always, be a festival of football.

In my opinion, I don’t think there are any clear favourites, but a number of teams who have a realistic chance of winning. I know from experience, tournament football is about hitting form at the right time, avoiding injuries to key players and having a little bit of luck.

European giants in with a chance

Starting with my country, Spain, I think we have a squad that blends youth and experience. We performed well in getting to the semi-finals of the Euros and, with many world-class players, must always be considered among the favourites. And the whole world is looking forward to seeing how one of the young stars, Pedri, performs on the biggest stage.

Then there’s the defending champions, France. Their results recently may not have been good but they have so much quality at their disposal. Their players play for the biggest clubs and they have Kylian Mbappe, who many would consider the best in the world.

In Hansi Flick, I think Germany have a fantastic coach and are known for their winning mentality. They are in a transition period, but there is an exciting new generation, including Jamal Musiala who I’m really looking forward to watching, as well as numerous players who have won major titles with their clubs.

South Americans to shine

When you think of the World Cup, you think of Brazil. Of course, they have not won the tournament since 2002, but they always have the talent to do so. Neymar da Silva will steal the headlines, but Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo Silva de Goes have performed so well for my former club, Real Madrid, so the Selecao are an exciting prospect.

We all know this will be Lionel Messi’s last chance to win the World Cup and, after he helped Argentina win the Copa America last year, he will be determined once more. They’re on an incredible run of form under manager Lionel Scaloni, having not lost since mid-2019, so, without a doubt, are one of the candidates to become champions.

But in the end, the usual suspects will be in the latter stages and I think Spain, France, Brazil and Argentina all have a strong chance of lifting the trophy. Speaking with my heart, but also with my head, I believe my country can be crowned world champions.

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