EA Sports correctly predicts Spain as 2026 World Cup champion for fifth consecutive time

Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the 2026 World Cup final at MetLife Stadium, with Ferran Torres scoring in the 105th minute of extra time. This victory not only gave Spain its second World Cup title but also marked the fifth consecutive correct prediction by EA Sports, which had forecasted the champion using simulations from its EA Sports FC 26 game. Source: Excelsior MX, Infobae, Milenio MX

The Prediction

EA Sports publicly released its prediction before the tournament, simulating the 48-team competition using the game's 'The World's Game' mode. The algorithm, which analyzes player performance, tactics, and historical data, accurately predicted Spain's triumph. The company noted that users played the tournament over 11 million times across platforms, with Spain winning the virtual trophy each time. Source: Infobae While the original simulation predicted a 4-2 final against England, the champion was correct. Source: Infobae

The Match

The real final was a tense tactical battle. Spain dominated possession but struggled to break down Argentina's defense, which was reduced to 10 men after Enzo Fernández's second yellow card. The decisive goal came from a Nico Williams assist to Ferran Torres in extra time. Despite Argentina's efforts, Spain held on for a 1-0 win, conceding only one goal throughout the entire tournament. Source: Excelsior MX, Infobae

The Streak

EA Sports' streak of correct predictions began with Spain in 2010, followed by Germany (2014), France (2018), Argentina (2022), and now Spain again (2026). This achievement is particularly notable given the company's split from FIFA's licensing, yet the accuracy remained unbroken. Source: Milenio MX, Excelsior MX