Argentina’s arguably favorable bracket at the 2026 World Cup is causing many fans to suspect that FIFA is “clearing the path” for Messi to defend the crown.
World Cup fans are buzzing on social media, claiming that this year’s tournament shows signs of being arranged for Lionel Messi to lead Argentina deep, or even successfully defend the championship.
The superstar on the books of Inter Miami will face Cape Verde with Argentina in the first knockout round. This is considered a significantly lighter opponent compared to the defending world champions. Previously, Argentina continued to maintain their winning streak after defeating Jordan in the final matchday of the group stage.
If they avoid a shock against Cape Verde, Argentina will face the winner of the match between Australia and Egypt. After that, the biggest potential opponent for the South American representative will likely be Colombia, although Switzerland, Algeria, or Ghana could also become the next obstacle.
This means Argentina might not have to face any team that has ever won the World Cup until the semi-final round. At that point, the opponent for Messi and his teammates could be England or Brazil.
Meanwhile, giants such as France, Germany, Spain, and Portugal are all located in the other bracket. This prevents Messi from facing these top contenders before the final, should Argentina reach the ultimate match.
After realizing Argentina’s supposedly quite comfortable path, many fans expressed their surprise on social media. One person wrote: “I am not saying the tournament is rigged, but why are Brazil and England the only strong opponents in Argentina’s bracket? It seems Argentina has an easier bracket again. Meanwhile, Germany, Spain, Morocco, Portugal, and France are all in the other bracket, one of the most difficult paths to the final. FIFA did it again for Messi.” Another fan commented: “What a coincidence that Argentina has the easiest path to the final.”
A third person was harsher: “Argentina has the easiest bracket in World Cup history. I have never seen anything like this before. This cannot just be luck, there must be something else behind it.” Another opinion even claimed: “Argentina has almost placed one foot into the semi-finals.”
Despite the controversies off the pitch, Messi is still creating memorable milestones at the 2026 World Cup. In the match against Jordan, he scored from a free kick, thereby becoming the first player in history to score in 7 consecutive matches at World Cups.
