MAROS – Maros Regent Chaidir Syam has already chosen his favorite teams ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The world’s biggest football tournament will take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico starting from June 11, 2026.

Chaidir revealed that he is backing two nations for the quadrennial event.

Those teams are France and Portugal.

“France and Portugal,” Chaidir Syam told Tribun Timur on Sunday (May 31, 2026).

According to Chaidir, both countries currently boast squads filled with star players.

The former Chairman of the Maros Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) believes the quality of players in both France and Portugal makes them worthy contenders for the championship.

“Because their teams are filled with star players,” he stated.

Although he supports both teams, Chaidir admits that he favors France slightly more than Portugal.

He believes France’s main strength lies in their attacking line.

He highlighted the impressive performances of Ousmane Dembele, who has been outstanding for his club this season.

“From France, there’s a striker playing for a top club like Ousmane Dembele, who just won the Champions League and has also been nominated for the 2026 Ballon d’Or,” he explained.

In addition to Dembele, Chaidir also mentioned Michael Olise as another player to watch.

“There’s also Michael Olise, who plays for Bayern Munich and has been one of the most impressive wingers in Europe this season,” he added.

He further noted that France’s midfield is equally strong.

“There’s Kylian Mbappe, who plays for Real Madrid. Their midfield is also very powerful, with many players coming from top European clubs,” he commented.

Meanwhile, Chaidir also praised Portugal for having a wealth of talented players.

He believes Portugal has several individuals capable of making a difference in crucial matches.

He cited Bruno Fernandes as one of Portugal’s best midfielders at the moment.

In addition, he pointed out that Cristiano Ronaldo remains a key figure despite being over 40 years old.

He emphasized that Ronaldo’s experience and leadership continue to add great value to the Portuguese squad.

“In Portugal, there’s Bruno Fernandes, who is among the top assist providers in the English Premier League. There’s also Cristiano Ronaldo, who, despite being over 40, still plays actively in the Saudi Arabian League. Ronaldo also led Al Nassr to a championship title and continues to inspire his teammates,” he explained.

When asked about his favorite players for the 2026 World Cup, Chaidir mentioned two names.

“Dembele from France and Cristiano Ronaldo from Portugal,” he said.

Chaidir also revealed plans to organize public viewing events during the World Cup.

He stated that the tournament is always eagerly awaited by football fans.

“God willing, we’ll hold public screenings because the World Cup has always been eagerly anticipated by football lovers here in Maros,” he concluded.