Former England captain John Terry has named France as his favourite to win the World Cup, but admitted he has been 'really impressed' with Argentina. Speaking on Piers Morgan Uncensored, Terry highlighted France's attacking options as the key reason for his prediction.
France's dominant group stage
Didier Deschamps' side finished top of Group I with convincing wins over Senegal, Iraq and Norway. They will now face Sweden in the round of 32. Terry said: 'I'm still stuck on France for being the best side I've seen, in terms of their attacking options and the threat they pose.'
England's path forward
England also secured top spot in Group L with a 2-0 victory over Panama on Saturday night. Thomas Tuchel's side are likely to meet either DR Congo or Senegal in the knockout stage. Terry added: 'I still think England have a really good chance. I know I got a bit of stick for picking France and England as my two sides.'
Argentina's pressing game impresses
Argentina have advanced to the round of 32 as well, with Lionel Messi scoring a hat-trick and a double to guide the World Cup holders to wins over Algeria and Austria. Terry praised Argentina's defensive work: 'Forget Messi, forget the goals he's scoring, in terms of how they're pressing, you watch when Argentina lose the ball, they go and counter press and win the ball high up the pitch. I think that's in fear of that they know they don't have 11 men that's going to track back, Messi being that person. They win the ball high, they give it to him and he can produce a bit of magic. I have to say I've been really impressed with them but France are still my favourites.'
Simon Jordan backs England
Former Crystal Palace owner Simon Jordan also shared his thoughts: 'I still think if you beat France you'll win the World Cup. I've got a feeling, despite the natural air of gloom that seems to have descended over the England camp, but with a little bit of luck that England can win the World Cup. I'm going to nail my colours to the mast, I'm not going to put any dough on it but I am going to say that England will win.'
