Gary Lineker names England's two main rivals for World Cup glory as Japan match nears

TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say Spain enter the tournament as reigning European champions following their victory over England in the Euro 2024 final, while France claimed the World Cup in 2018 before finishing as runners-up four years later.Lineker identified the current holders of the European title as the side every other nation must overcome.I think Spain have to be the team to beat, he remarked.I think they could do a repeat of what they did a decade or so ago and win consecutive tournaments. I mean, they've got some players, Spain.The former striker also highlighted Portugal as a worthwhile outside bet, though he noted their success may depend on managing Cristiano Ronaldo's involvement.Micah Richards, the former England defender, echoed Lineker's preference for Spain but raised concerns about environmental conditions at the tournament.LATEST SPORTS NEWS:Golf star breaks down in tears and hugs wife after winning first tournament since life-or-death surgeryErling Haaland spends more than half his £500,000-a-week salary on luxury present for himselfFormer England star Jermain Defoe, 43, secures first football management jobI would always back England, especially with the players they have available, Richards said.The only slight concern for me is the climate. The climate, guys, you know what it's like playing in that heat.The pundit suggested that footballers from Mediterranean nations possess a natural advantage when competing in warmer temperatures.The players from Spain, Italy and France generally play in better weather and are perhaps better equipped to play in the heat, he explained.If I had to pick one, I would go with you and choose Spain.Tuchel's side will open their World Cup campaign against Croatia on 17th June, with Ghana and Panama completing the Group L lineup.England are seeking their first World Cup triumph in six decades, having come close on multiple occasions under Gareth Southgate without securing silverware.The former manager guided the Three Lions to two European Championship finals, both ending in defeat, alongside strong performances at recent World Cups.In their most recent outing before the tournament, a heavily rotated England squad played out a 1-1 draw with Uruguay on Friday. Tuchel's men face Japan in a friendly on Tuesday. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter