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MAKASSAR – PSM Makassar midfielder Rifky Dwi Septiawan has named Spain as his favourite team to win the 2026 World Cup.

His reason is simple — he admires La Furia Roja’s beautiful style of play, the famous tiki-taka.

Tiki-taka is a style of football characterised by quick short passes combined with constant player movement to maintain possession.

“Spain (are my favourites for the World Cup) because of their tiki-taka,” Rifky said when contacted on Sunday (31 May 2026).

For Rifky, supporting Spain is nothing new.

He has been a fan of the team since the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, when he was only eight years old.

Rifky was born in Tangerang on 3 February 2002.

At that time, under coach Vicente Del Bosque, Spain won their first-ever World Cup title with their trademark tiki-taka football.

“That tiki-taka style, especially in 2010, was amazing,” he said.

Now, Rifky hopes Spain can repeat that success 16 years later.

He believes Luis de la Fuente’s current squad for the 2026 World Cup is of very high quality, with strong depth in every position.

In goal, Spain have David Raya.

The defensive line includes Paul Cubarsi, Eric Garcia, and Marc Cucurella.

In midfield, Spain boast world-class players such as Rodri, Pedri, Martin Zubimendi, and Fabian Ruiz.

Up front, they have a sharp attacking line featuring Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams, Dani Olmo, and Ferran Torres.

“They have a very good chance of becoming champions,” Rifky said confidently.

Spain are placed in Group H of the 2026 World Cup, which will take place across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

The two-time European champions will face Saudi Arabia, Cape Verde, and Uruguay in the group stage.

To advance further in the tournament, Rodri and his teammates will first need to overcome these opponents in the group phase.

According to Rifky, Spain’s main rivals this year are Argentina and Portugal.

Both teams have managed to blend young talents with experienced players.

Moreover, both sides still feature their legendary stars — Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

“Argentina and Portugal are also likely to perform strongly in the upcoming World Cup,” he added.

Rifky also pointed out that Barcelona midfielder Pedri will be Spain’s key player in this 23rd edition of the World Cup.

He considers Pedri one of the best midfielders in the world today.

Pedri’s exceptional vision, calmness, ball control, and precise passing make him a vital figure in Spain’s midfield.

“Pedri (is the key player),” said the PSM Makassar player who wears the number 32 jersey.