As England prepare to begin their FIFA World Cup 2026
campaign against Croatia on Wednesday evening, former England captain and SuperSport FIFA World Cup analyst John Terry believes the Three Lions have a genuine chance of ending their long wait for football’s biggest prize at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Terry, who is part of SuperSport’s star-studded panel of analysts for the tournament, says he is encouraged by England’s preparations and the strength of the squad heading into the competition.
The former Chelsea captain believes England arrive in North America with one of the most talented teams in world football and a growing confidence that they can go all the way.
“I’m extremely excited to see England at this World Cup,” Terry said. “We’ve had a couple of strong tournaments in recent years, and we have a very good squad. More importantly, I genuinely believe we have a real opportunity to win this World Cup.”
He highlighted captain Harry Kane as a key figure in England’s hopes of success.
“Harry Kane is pivotal to everything we do. If we can keep him fit, he remains our captain, our leading goalscorer and a major influence both on and off the pitch. That gives me plenty of confidence about England’s chances,” he said.
England begin their World Cup campaign against Croatia on Wednesday, June 17, in a match expected to provide an early test of whether Thomas Tuchel’s side can live up to the high expectations surrounding the team.
For Terry, his optimism is based not only on national pride but also on the quality and depth available throughout the squad, as well as the progress England has made in recent years.
“We always sing ‘It’s Coming Home’ before major tournaments,” he said with a smile. “But I think there’s a real connection between the team and the supporters now. Fans have seen the progress made under Gareth Southgate and the excellent work he did with the national team.
“Now there is hope that Thomas Tuchel can take the team to the next level.”
Terry believes England’s immediate target should be progressing from the group stage and ideally finishing top of the group.
“Once you reach the knockout rounds, anything can happen. You need quality, but you also need a bit of luck. I’ve always said that the strength and depth of our squad compare favourably with most countries, and hopefully that will work in our favour,” he added.
Despite his confidence in the selected squad, Terry admitted there were a few players he would have liked to see included.
Among them is Manchester United defender Harry Maguire, whom he believes could still make a valuable contribution at international level.
“I’m happy with the squad overall, but there are one or two players I would personally have taken,” Terry said. “Harry Maguire would certainly have been one of them, and I would also have considered Cole Palmer.”
Although Palmer has not enjoyed his best season with Chelsea, Terry believes the midfielder possesses the kind of quality capable of deciding major matches.
“Players with that spark of brilliance are always important. Cole has that ability. He scored for England in the last European Championship final against Spain and has shown he can perform on the biggest stage. For me, those are the types of players you want at a World Cup.”
Terry also expressed admiration for Trent Alexander-Arnold, saying the Real Madrid defender could have offered another valuable option for England.
“He gives you so much going forward, and his delivery from wide areas is exceptional,” Terry explained. “Set pieces have become a huge part of modern football, and someone with his quality can make a real difference, especially in tight games.”
Looking ahead to the tournament, Terry identified France as the team most likely to challenge for the title.
“I would put France among the favourites,” he said. “Their attacking options are incredible, and they have quality throughout the squad. We’ve seen that talent on display in the Champions League and across European football this season.”
He also believes weather conditions could play a significant role during the competition.
“The weather will be an important factor. Teams that are comfortable in possession and capable of controlling games will have an advantage because they can tire opponents and dictate the tempo. France and Spain are particularly strong in that regard.”
As the tournament gets underway, Terry remains optimistic that England have the quality, belief and experience needed to challenge for World Cup glory and potentially bring football’s most coveted trophy back home.
As one of SuperSport’s leading analysts during the FIFA World Cup 2026, Terry has provided viewers with expert Former England captain John Terry is set to bring expert insight, tactical analysis and decades of top-level experience to football fans throughout the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Terry forms part of a star-studded team of football analysts assembled by SuperSport to provide in-depth coverage of the tournament, offering viewers closer access to the biggest stories, standout players and defining moments on football’s grandest stage.
The former Chelsea defender is also relishing his return to South Africa, a country he last visited during the memorable 2010 FIFA World Cup.
“I’m super excited to be back,” Terry said. “The last time I was here was in 2010, so it’s been a very long time.”
He added that he hopes to return soon with his family, noting that his current visit is largely focused on work.
“I’d love to come back in the near future with my family because this trip is work-related, so there hasn’t been much time for sightseeing. But I’m really enjoying being here.”
Terry also praised South Africa’s climate, joking that what locals consider winter feels more like summer to him.
“I know it’s winter here, but it feels like summer to me, so I’m enjoying the sunshine,” he said.
Looking ahead to England’s World Cup campaign, Terry expressed optimism about the team’s chances, citing the squad’s quality and growing confidence.
“The quality in this team is unquestionable, and the belief is growing,” he said. “If Harry Kane stays fit and continues performing at his best, England may have a genuine chance of ending their long wait for World Cup success.”
Where to Watch the FIFA World Cup 2026
Fans can watch every match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 live on DStv Premium, Compact Plus, Compact, Family and Access packages. All matches will also be available for streaming on supported subscriptions, giving viewers the flexibility to follow the action anytime and from anywhere.