Betano Data Reveals Overwhelming Punters' Support for Messi and Argentina in World Cup Final

The 2026 World Cup final will see Argentina face Spain after dramatic semi-final victories, and betting data from Kaizen Gaming's Betano shows the reigning champions are the clear fan favourite despite being considered underdogs.

82% of Betano users expect Lionel Messi to lift the trophy for a second consecutive World Cup, a feat that would cement his legacy as the greatest footballer ever, according to the operator's figures. The draw is the most popular single bet, but a huge share of punters are backing Argentina to win outright.

Of those backing Argentina, 42% predict the title will be retained within 90 minutes, while a further 19% believe Spain will triumph after extra time. Spain reached the final with a comfortable 2-0 win over tournament favourites France, with goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro. Argentina's path was more dramatic, staging a late comeback against England through strikes from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez.

Much of the pre-match narrative centres on the contrast between Messi and Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal. A resurfaced photo of the two from when Yamal was six months old has gone viral. Punters are embracing the storyline: 40% of Betano users have backed Messi to score in the final, followed by Yamal at 18% and Oyarzabal at 12%.

In individual award markets, 27% of users back Messi to win the Golden Ball, while Yamal is the overwhelming favourite for Best Young Player, with 54% support. The final will be played in New Jersey, and while fans hope for a spectacle, the primary goal for both nations is simply to win.