Image Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Philadelphia 76ers’ Joel Embiid Thinks England will ‘Choke Again’ in 2026 World Cup

Image Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Philadelphia 76ers’ big man Joel Embiid took a cheeky dig at the England’s soccer team. Embiid appeared in an interview, where he boldly predicted that Three Lions will ‘choke again’ at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States of America from June 11, 2026. Notably, Embiid, who had a limited 19-game appearances for the 76ers during the NBA 2024-25 season due to injuries, aims a rebound in the forthcoming season.

The 76ers begin their preseason by locking horns with the New York Knicks on October 2, at the Etihad Arena in NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025. Ahead of the game, Embiid shared his thoughts about the 1996 World Champions, suggesting that they would once again ‘choke’ during the tournament, like how they have been doing it. “England are going to choke again,” the seven-time NBA All-Star said.

"England are going to choke again" 😮

The Three Lions are on the brink of World Cup qualification, but Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid doesn't rate their chances next summer… pic.twitter.com/sOZjnFsOIh
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) October 2, 2025

“That happens every single time. They’ve technically got the best team, some of the guys, you know, I am a big football fan. I watch every single game. So, they got.. As far as talent on paper, it looks good.” On being asked who he thinks would win the tournament, Embiid said, “France has had the best team. I think Spain’s got a chance, obviously.”

Embiid’s statement comes from England’s storied history of having high expectations and heartbreaking exits in major tournaments, including their loss to France in the 2022 World Cup quarterfinals or their defeat to Italy in the 2020 Euro Final.

Joel Embiid to Sit Out as 76ers Embark Upon 2025-26 Preseason

The 76ers are set to begin their preseason by clashing against the Knicks in the UAE. While the 2023 NBA MVP arrived in Abu Dhabi for the fixture, he won’t be lacing up for the game. This, however, doesn’t come as a surprise as he didn’t enter the camp with 100% health. Though he got into a practice session on Saturday, the 76ers center hasn’t committed to a timetable yet. It is to be seen if or when he steps on the court for a preseason game.

Notably, the 31-year-old played 12 preseason games through three straight seasons earlier in his career. However, he has been in only six games through five preseason games. During the 2023 NBA Preseason, he played for 33 minutes in one game, which was the last time he stepped on the floor in a preseason outing. In fact, earlier during the 76ers’ media day, Embiid didn’t share a solid timeline of his return, but said that he would take it day-by-day in the upcoming season.

Joel Embiid

Garima Ranawat

Garima is a sports writer with around two years of experience in Indian sports and a newfound interest in the NBA. Inspired by the leadership of cricketing legend MS Dhoni, she wishes to bring in newer perspectives to the NBA fanatics with her writing.