As the world gears up for the FIFA World Cup 2026, to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, football enthusiast and lifelong Argentina supporter Anil D’Souza shares his thoughts on the expanded tournament, Qatar’s rise in world football, India’s prospects, and his favourites for football’s biggest prize.
Armstrong Vaz: After the memorable FIFA World Cup in Qatar in 2022, the tournament now heads to the United States, Canada, and Mexico. How excited are you about this edition?
Anil D’Souza: Very excited. We have waited four long years for this. The World Cup is approaching its centenary, with the first tournament having been played in 1930, which makes this edition even more special. It’s also the first World Cup to be hosted across three countries. Add to that the expanded format featuring 48 teams instead of 32, and there’s every reason for football fans to be excited.
Armstrong Vaz: Which team will you be supporting during the World Cup?
Anil D’Souza: I think everyone who knows me already knows the answer. I’ve always been an Argentina supporter and will be cheering for Argentina throughout the tournament.
Armstrong Vaz: You’ve named your son Neymar. Does that create divided loyalties in the family between Brazil and Argentina?
Anil D’Souza: (Laughs) That’s always a tricky question. I’ve always admired the Latin American style of football. While Brazil and Argentina are fierce rivals, I have immense respect for the Brazilian flair and approach to the game. I wanted a unique football-inspired name, which is why I named my son Neymar. But both of us support Argentina and would be delighted if any Latin American nation lifts the trophy.
Armstrong Vaz: FIFA has expanded the tournament to 48 teams. What are your thoughts on the new format?
Anil D’Souza: Some critics feel the tournament may become too long, but I see it differently. FIFA is trying to make football truly global. With 48 nations participating, nearly one in every four countries in the world gets a chance to be represented. More teams mean more opportunities for emerging football nations to showcase their talent. I think we’ll witness several David-versus-Goliath stories during this tournament.
Armstrong Vaz: India remains absent from the World Cup stage. When do you think India will finally qualify?
Anil D’Souza: That’s the million-dollar question. No one can predict exactly when it will happen, but there are positive signs. The Indian Super League has contributed significantly to the development of football, and private investment is helping strengthen the ecosystem. Countries like Qatar have shown what can be achieved through long-term planning and development. If India continues on the current path, qualification is certainly possible in the future.
Armstrong Vaz: Qatar will be participating after qualifying on merit rather than as hosts. What do you make of their progress?
Anil D’Souza: Qatar has grown tremendously as a football nation. Winning multiple AFC Asian Cups and consistently competing at a high level demonstrates that their success isn’t accidental. Players like Akram Afif have become household names in Asian football. Beyond that, Qatar has firmly established itself as a global football destination. Venues like Lusail Stadium have become iconic. If Qatar continues qualifying consistently, they’ll attract a growing international fan base.
Armstrong Vaz: Who are your favourites to win the World Cup?
Anil D’Souza: Argentina and France are obvious contenders. England also looks very strong on paper. I believe Spain and the Netherlands have the quality to make deep runs as well. These teams possess strong footballing traditions and, more importantly, tremendous squad depth.
Armstrong Vaz: If you had to pick the strongest squad in the tournament, who would it be?
Anil D’Souza: As an Argentina fan, it’s difficult to admit, but France probably has the strongest squad. They are loaded with talent in every position. In fact, their second-string team could compete with many nations’ first-choice teams. Their depth is truly remarkable.
Armstrong Vaz: One of football’s traditional giants, Italy, has now missed three consecutive World Cups. How significant is their absence?
Anil D’Souza: It’s a huge loss for the tournament. Italy is one of football’s most historic nations and won the World Cup as recently as 2006. Growing up watching legends like Roberto Baggio and many others, it’s hard to imagine a World Cup without Italy. It’s especially ironic that one of the world’s best goalkeepers, Gianluigi Donnarumma, may go through the prime years of his career without playing at a World Cup. That really highlights Italy’s recent struggles.
Armstrong Vaz: Any final message for football fans around the world?
Anil D’Souza: Absolutely. Even if you’re not a regular football fan, take time to watch the FIFA World Cup. This is the one sporting event that unites virtually every country on the planet. Teams spend years trying to qualify for this stage. With 48 teams competing across three host nations, there will be no shortage of drama, surprises, rivalries, and unforgettable moments. The World Cup is more than football—it’s a global celebration. So enjoy the matches, join the conversations, and be part of the excitement.
Interview conducted by Armstrong Vaz
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