FIFA predicted the World Cup winner for the fourth consecutive time

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FIFA 23
(Image credit: EA)

FIFA has correctly predicted the World Cup winners for the fourth time in a row.

Back on November 8, a few short weeks before the 2022 World Cup began, EA published its simulated results of the tournament using FIFA 23. Although FIFA 23 claimed Argentina would beat Brazil in the final, a result which would be partially incorrect, the game accurately predicted Argentina as the ultimate winner.

FIFA 23 also correctly predicted Argentina's Emi Martinez as the winner of the tournament's Golden Glove award (but didn't predict him doing that with the trophy). The game also very nearly got the Golden Boot winner correct, awarding it to Messi in first position, and Kylian Mbappe in third - the latter would eventually take the award by virtue of a World Cup Final hat-trick.

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Unfortunately, FIFA 23 decided the World Cup Final would be decided by just a single goal, which couldn't have been further from the truth. France and Argentina put on one of the best World Cup Finals in recent memory, each netting three goals (one each in extra time), before Argentina won it four to two on penalties. Let's circle back in 2026 to see what FIFA has to say then.

Check out our FIFA 23 Icons list guide to see who was ultimately left off the prestigious list. 

Hirun Cryer
Hirun Cryer
Freelance Writer

Hirun Cryer is a freelance reporter and writer with Gamesradar+ based out of U.K. After earning a degree in American History specializing in journalism, cinema, literature, and history, he stepped into the games writing world, with a focus on shooters, indie games, and RPGs, and has since been the recipient of the MCV 30 Under 30 award for 2021. In his spare time he freelances with other outlets around the industry, practices Japanese, and enjoys contemporary manga and anime.