World Cup 2026 predictions
Every FIFA World Cup delivers its fair share of surprises, and the 2026 tournament, hosted across the USA, Canada, and Mexico, promises to be no different. With an expanded format featuring 48 teams for the first time in history, there is more room for underdogs to shine. While powerhouses like Brazil, Argentina, France, and Germany will be among the favorites, there are several dark horse teams that could make a deep run and turn heads along the way. Here are some teams to watch out for in 2026:
1. Morocco – From Underdog to Contender
Morocco stunned the world in Qatar 2022 by becoming the first African team to reach the semifinals, knocking out Spain and Portugal in the process. With a well-organized defense, a disciplined midfield, and the flair of players like Achraf Hakimi and Hakim Ziyech, the Atlas Lions could once again go deep in the tournament. Their experience from 2022, combined with a talented new generation, makes them a serious threat.
2. Japan – The Rising Samurai
Japan has been steadily improving on the global stage and showed their potential in Qatar 2022 by topping a group that included Spain and Germany. With their disciplined tactical approach, high-energy playstyle, and emerging stars in European leagues, Japan could be a dark horse in 2026. If they can refine their attacking game while maintaining defensive solidity, a deep run is within reach.
3. United States – Home Advantage and Young Talent
Playing on home soil, the USMNT will have the advantage of familiarity and strong fan support. The squad is loaded with young talent like Christian Pulisic, Gio Reyna, and Weston McKennie, all of whom are gaining valuable experience in top European leagues. The U.S. showed glimpses of promise in Qatar 2022 but lacked consistency. If they can gel as a unit and find a clinical striker, they could be a major surprise in 2026.
4. Uruguay – The Sleeping Giant
While Uruguay has a rich World Cup history, they haven’t been considered top contenders in recent editions. However, with a mix of experienced players like Federico Valverde and a rising generation of young stars, Uruguay could be a formidable force. Their traditional tenacity, combined with a more dynamic playing style under new management, could see them outperform expectations.
5. Serbia – A Golden Generation on the Rise
Serbia has one of the most talented squads they’ve ever had, featuring players like Dusan Vlahovic, Sergej Milinković-Savić, and Aleksandar Mitrovic. However, their challenge has always been consistency and team cohesion. If they can finally click on the big stage and manage their defensive vulnerabilities, Serbia could be a serious dark horse in 2026.
6. Canada – The Host Nation with Firepower
Canada made a return to the World Cup stage in 2022 after a 36-year absence, and though they exited early, they showed glimpses of potential. With Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David leading the attack, Canada has the firepower to cause problems for any team. As one of the host nations, they will benefit from home support and could emerge as a surprise package in 2026.
7. Nigeria – African Flair and Attack Power
African teams are becoming increasingly competitive on the world stage, and Nigeria, if they qualify, could be a major threat. With a squad full of exciting attacking talent like Victor Osimhen and Samuel Chukwueze, the Super Eagles have the offensive firepower to trouble even the strongest defenses. If they can solidify their backline and maintain tactical discipline, Nigeria could be a team to watch.
Final Thoughts
With the expanded format and the unpredictability of knockout football, surprises are inevitable at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. These dark horse teams have the talent, potential, and motivation to shock the world and make deep runs in the tournament. As history has shown, the World Cup is the perfect stage for underdogs to rise—will we see another Cinderella story in 2026? Only time will tell.
