DF: If you had to pick the national teams that you consider favorites for the 23rd World Cup, which ones would you put in the forefront?

"When we talk about the World Cup, quality alone is not enough. You need depth, personality, experience and the ability to withstand pressure in consecutive high-intensity games. If I had to choose teams today that I think have all these elements, I would say that there are some national teams that clearly stand out."

DF: What is the first team that comes to mind?

"Portugal. It is a national team that in recent years has managed to combine experience and renewal in an ideal way. It has players who are at the top level of European football. Vitinha has developed into a midfielder who controls the tempo and the game, Joao Neves is one of the most complete young footballers and of course there is Cristiano Ronaldo. For me, regardless of age or numbers, he remains a personality who changes the psychology of an entire team. His presence alone gives confidence.”



DF: Are France still among the big favorites?

“France is always a team that you have to take very seriously. They have a huge production of talent and at the same time experience from big competitions. Mbappe is a footballer who can judge games on his own. Oliseh has different characteristics and creativity, while Dembele can provide unpredictable solutions. What makes France so dangerous is that they have many different options and can change the way they play without losing quality.”

DF: Are Argentina still at the top of your estimates?

"When you have Lionel Messi, there is always reason to believe. Argentina has acquired a winning mentality. It is no longer just the talent of the units, but the way they work as a team. Messi continues to be a point of reference, not only competitively but also mentally. And around him there is a core of players who know how to manage big moments."

DF: Do you see Brazil returning to the top?

"Brazil is always Brazil. I think the presence of Carlo Ancelotti creates a different balance. He is a coach with enormous experience, he knows how to manage stars and keep a team calm in difficult moments. If you combine the quality of the Brazilians with the experience of such a successful coach, then a very competitive team can be presented."

DF: And the European champions Spain?

"Spain are perhaps one of the most interesting teams at the moment. It has energy, intensity, quality and players who can make a difference in one-on-ones. Yamal shows something really special for his age, Rafinha has personality and Nico Williams gives speed and unpredictability. When a team combines technique and confidence, then it can go very far.”

DF: If you had to give a message about what will ultimately determine the world champion?

“In big competitions, it is usually not just the most talented team that wins. The one that stays united, has a clear mind in difficult moments and finds a way to perform better when the pressure is on is the greatest. That is why the World Cup is always special. Because it ultimately reveals characters.”