Former India striker Robin Singh has named France as his top pick to win the FIFA World Cup 2026, arguing that the heartbreak of their 2022 final defeat to Argentina has forged a more determined and dangerous side under coach Didier Deschamps.

France's Path to the Semi-Finals

France became the first nation to secure a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals after beating Morocco 2-0, a result that underscored their campaign's three pillars: attacking flair, defensive discipline, and exceptional squad depth. The victory continued a run that has drawn widespread attention for its consistency and quality across positions.

Why Robin Singh Rates France Above the Rest

Robin, speaking as part of the Zee5 FIFA World Cup 2026 expert panel, pointed to France's depth as the decisive factor. 'France. I followed them from the last World Cup as well. This year, when you look at the depth they have created and the youth they have added, it's unbelievable. You have Dembele in attack, Kone and Rabiot in midfield, while players like Tchouameni and even Kante are not regular starters. Then you have Michael Olise thriving in a new role, while there is quality all over the squad,' he said.

He elaborated on the defensive unit as well. 'You've got Theo Hernandez and Jules Kounde at the back. I think this team has the best depth. I've always believed that the depth of the squad is much more important than just the starting eleven because not every player is going to produce a 10 out of 10 performance every game,' Robin added.

The Deschamps Factor and Squad Unity

Robin also highlighted the galvanising effect of Didier Deschamps announcing that this will be his final tournament as France head coach. 'When you throw in Didier Deschamps saying this is his last tournament, the team has galvanised. The iconic image of him bowing down to Kylian Mbappe shows the mutual respect between coach and player, and that respect is spreading through the entire squad,' he said.

This comes amid a broader narrative around France's emotional motivation — the memory of losing the 2022 Qatar final to Argentina on penalties after a thrilling 3-3 draw remains raw. For Robin, that scar is an asset. 'For me, it's the complete package this year. They have everything. And a wounded lion is a lot more dangerous,' he said.

England vs Norway: Robin's Quarter-Final Warning

Robin also weighed in on the upcoming quarter-final between England and Norway, scheduled for Sunday. He expects it to be England's sternest test of the tournament. 'Norway are a great team. The understanding between Martin Odegaard and Erling Haaland is paying dividends. They are happy to defend, hit teams on the counter and frustrate opponents. Haaland has been unbelievable throughout the tournament. If you believe in yourself, you can win,' he said.

With the semi-finals taking shape, all eyes will be on whether France can convert their campaign momentum into a third World Cup title — and whether Deschamps can bow out with the sport's ultimate prize.