The former England captain was sent off in their last-16 exit to Argentina at France '98, but earned redemption with his match-winning penalty against them at the 2002 World Cup.

Beckham believes the current England crop are destined to meet their old rivals once again in Russia.

"I believe Argentina will play against England in the final," Beckham predicted at an event to promote China's largest collegiate football league.

"I think obviously my choice would be England to win the competition, but that's me being biased and passionate about my country."

Beckham was speaking after England won their opening Group G game against Tunisia on Monday thanks to a late Harry Kane winner.

Gareth Southgate's side face Panama on Sunday before a fixture against Belgium next week.

"I'm very happy that we won the first game in the group," said Beckham.

"England is a very young team, they don't have a lot of experience yet and the journey of the World Cup will become harder and harder because there are many good teams in the tournament."