Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has tipped France to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup after his initial favourites, Germany, were eliminated by Paraguay in the Round of 32.
His prediction gained further momentum after Les Bleus secured a place in the semi-finals with a 2-0 victory over Morocco in Thursday’s quarter-final at Gillette Stadium in Boston.
The 26-year-old Udinese goalkeeper shared his thoughts during the Jean Paul Gaultier Fall/Winter 2026 Haute Couture Show at Paris Fashion Week, where he was interviewed by Dazed while seated alongside American rap star Cardi B.
When asked to name his favourites to lift the World Cup trophy, Okoye revealed that he had originally backed Germany before their early exit and subsequently switched his support to France.
“I was rooting for Germany, but unfortunately we are out already, so I think I’ll go with France,” the Nigeria international said.
France have continued to justify Okoye’s confidence with an impressive campaign. Les Bleus advanced through the group stage with a perfect nine points after victories over Senegal, Iraq and Norway before defeating Sweden in the Round of 32, Paraguay in the Round of 16 and Morocco in the quarter-finals to book their place in the last four.
With France now among the tournament favourites, Okoye will be hoping Didier Deschamps' side can complete their run to the title and vindicate his prediction.
