Alfarizy Ajie Fadhilah/Tribunnews.com

JAKARTA – The football fever has apparently spread to the badminton courts as well.

Indonesia’s young men’s doubles pair, Raymond Indra and Nikolaus Joaquin, recently shared their thoughts about their favourite teams for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Following their match at the Polytron Indonesia Open 2026, the duo revealed contrasting opinions about the world's most popular sport.

Nikolaus Joaquin admitted that he faced a personal dilemma between the team he supports and the one he believes has the strongest chance of winning based on technical prowess.

Personally, Joaquin expressed his strong support for the Portugal national team.

“Of course, I want Portugal to win,” Joaquin said when asked about his preferred team on Thursday (June 4, 2026).

However, when analysing the current strength of the participating teams, Joaquin honestly acknowledged that France appears to be the most dominant side.

He predicted that Didier Deschamps’ squad would likely emerge as champions.

“But I think France is really strong. So, I feel France will probably win. Still, my support goes to Portugal,” Joaquin explained.

According to the group stage draw, France is placed in Group I alongside Senegal, Norway, and Iraq.

Meanwhile, Portugal—Joaquin’s favourite team—will compete in Group K with Colombia, Uzbekistan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

His doubles partner, Raymond Indra, showed a completely different attitude. While Joaquin eagerly discussed world football, Raymond admitted that he does not follow the sport at all.

When asked if he had a favourite team for the 2026 World Cup, Raymond gave a brief and candid response.

“None. I don’t watch football,” Raymond said with a laugh.