82% of Betano Users Backed Messi to Lift the World Cup
Global.- 21 July 2026 www.zonadeazar.com Data from Betano showed strong customer support for Lionel Messi and Argentina ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Spain. Despite Argentina entering the match as the betting underdog, 82% of participating users expected Messi to lift the trophy for a second consecutive tournament.
News Details
The draw was the single most popular match selection. However, 42% of users backed Argentina to retain the title after 120 minutes, while a further 19% expected Spain to win the trophy during extra time.
The final brought together the defending champions and a Spanish side that had defeated France 2-0 in the semi-finals. Argentina reached the deciding match after completing a late comeback against England through goals from Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez.
Betting interest also focused on the generational contest between Messi and Lamine Yamal. In the goalscorer market, 40% of users backed the Argentina captain to score, compared with 18% for Yamal and 12% for Spain forward Mikel Oyarzabal.
Industry Context
The betting patterns highlighted the influence of leading players on customer activity during major international tournaments. Alongside traditional match-result markets, users showed considerable interest in goalscorer selections and individual awards.
Messi led the betting for the tournament’s Golden Ball, receiving support from 27% of users. Yamal was the clear favourite to be named the best young player, backed by 54% of participants.
The final also revived comparisons with the 2022 decider, when Argentina defeated France on penalties following a 3-3 draw after extra time.
Next Steps or Impact
The concentration of activity around Messi demonstrated how leading athletes can drive betting across match outcomes, goalscorer markets and individual awards. For operators, this behaviour reinforces the value of offering a broad range of options around globally significant sporting events.
Edited by: @_fonta
