Former Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Packie Bonner has predicted that Argentina will emerge as winners of this year's World Cup in Qatar.
Argentina go into the tournament as arguably the most in-form team, and a re currently on a unbeaten run of 36 games. They are in Group C of the competition, alongside Saudi Arabia, Mexico and Poland.
While they have always had a talented squad, off the field issues and conflict among players in the dressing room as often been in their way of success, with the final defeat to Germany in 2014 the closest they've came to winning football's ultimate prize since 1986.
However, in a team that looks far more united as a group in Lionel Messi's last opportunity to capture the trophy missing from his incredible career, Packie Bonner spoke to Balls.ie in partnership with Ladbokes, has made them as his favourites to go all the way.
"We've always enjoyed watching the South American teams at the World Cup. I watched Argentin against Italy in London recently and I thought they were very, very good.
Italy are the european champions, but it was almost like Argentina were a step ahead of them. I'm putting Argentina down as an almost favourite to win this.
I'm looking forward to seeing how France does. If I was going to pick two for a final and the way it might maybe workout, I'm leaning towards a France-Argentina final.
Brazil we know are always going to be there or thereabouts. They've got an experienced squad with some younger players of course. The likes of Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo, the most typical young players that are likely to play. I'm looking forward to that."
While he may be the centre of controversy regarding his future with PSG, Packie Bonner claims Kylian Mbappe could still be key to France's chances of success in the tournament.
After a shock last 16 exit to Switzerland in Euro 2020, followed by relegation to League B in the Nations League, France look a shadow of the side that won the World Cup in 2018.
However, Packie Bonner is tipping Mbappe to deliver France to the final.
"I would pick Mbappe maybe as a potential top goalscorer, it depends again on how France do. They have an interesting combination of players, with the young Camavinga and Tchouameni in the middle of the pitch. Mbappe is still a young player.
I might pick Mbappe if France get to where I expect them to get to"
Despite all the controversy that surrounds the World Cup In Qatar, from the scheduling of the the tournament, to the unusual circumstances the tournament was awarded to them and issues for fans, the former Ireland goalkeeper hopes this will be a World Cup to remember.
"It's an interesting World Cup from the point of view it's winter and it's different than usual. I go back to my good old memories from when I was a young boy and I was watching the one in Mexico and it inspired me, and I hope this inspires the young people too.
Packie Bonner was speaking ahead of the The Bandwagon Bar- World Cup Viewing Party, held at The Square Ball on Monday when the USA take on Wales, with Bonner and Stephen Hunt in attendance. Information can be viewed here.
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