Lionel Messi believes Argentina 's arch rivals Brazil are primed to win the World Cup as he named them among the favourites.
The South American nation topped qualifying and look to be peaking at the right time under manager Tite. Brazil, the World Cup's most successful team, have not tasted success since Ronaldo powered them to the trophy back in 2002.
Now, with Neymar their main man, Messi believes they are well placed to win the tournament in Qatar. The PSG star named them alongside current holders France, who flopped last time they attempted to defend their title, as the two sides to beat this winter.
"We always say the same great teams ... but, if I have to choose, Brazil and France are the two great candidates to win the World Cup," Messi told DIRECTV Sports.
"They've had the same group [of players] for a long time, working well. France, aside from the last Euros when they were eliminated [in the last 16] and did badly, they have some impressive players. They have a clear idea and the same coach [Didier Deschamps]. Brazil is a bit the same [under Tite]."
Argentina themselves are quietly fancied by some with Messi's nation currently in the midst of a 35 match unbeaten run that saw them claim the Copa America last summer. On that occasion they beat Brazil in the final as Messi claim his first international honour.
Who will win the World Cup? Let us know in the comments below!
The 35-year-old is hoping to claim his first World Cup in what will be his last tournament. Argentina have not claimed glory since Diego Maradona inspired them back in 1986. Messi's best effort was a final appearance in 2014, where they lost to Germany.
Current boss Lionel Scaloni already knows he might be without several key players. Angel di Maria and Paulo Dybala are both injured and Scaloni has opened up on the fitness challenges that come with scheduling a World Cup in the middle of the season.
"We are in quite a difficult stage. The players are playing a lot of games," he told AFAestudio. "There can be problems as there are injuries [and] suspensions. It's part of being an elite player and a national team player. I worry, but there is little you can do. I believe that the player has to go out on the pitch to play and not think about what's coming -- it can be detrimental. Let them play naturally."
Argentina have been put into a group with Mexico, Poland and Saudi Arabia. If they top the standings, which they are firmly expected to, then they could meet Brazil in the semi-finals.
