Biggest FIFA World Cup Upsets So Far: Underdogs Shaking the 2026 Tournament

The FIFA World Cup has always been a stage where football’s biggest giants face the risk of being humbled by determined underdogs. While fans often expect traditional powerhouses to dominate, the 2026 FIFA World Cup has once again proven that rankings and reputations mean very little once the whistle blows.

From debutants earning historic results to heavy favourites being frustrated by lesser-known nations, this tournament has already delivered several unforgettable upsets. Interestingly, some of the biggest surprises have not been dramatic victories but unexpected draws that have completely changed the group-stage landscape.

Why the 2026 World Cup Is Producing More Upsets

The expanded 48-team format has created more opportunities for emerging football nations to compete against established powers. With additional spots available, countries that previously struggled to qualify are now showcasing their talent on the world stage.

The result has been a tournament filled with competitive matches and unexpected outcomes. Many so-called smaller nations are no longer content with simply participating—they are aiming to challenge football’s elite.

Cape Verde’s Fairytale Run Continues

Perhaps the biggest surprise of the tournament so far has been the remarkable performance of Cape Verde.

Making their FIFA World Cup debut, the African nation stunned fans by holding European champions Spain to a goalless draw. If that result was considered a one-off, Cape Verde quickly proved otherwise by securing another impressive draw against Uruguay.

The 2-2 result against Uruguay showcased the team’s resilience and attacking quality. Cape Verde even scored their first-ever World Cup goal during the match, creating one of the most memorable moments of the tournament. What makes this achievement even more remarkable is the country’s small population of just over 500,000 people.

For many football fans, Cape Verde has become the story of the World Cup.

Ghana Frustrates England

England entered the tournament with high expectations and one of the strongest squads in the competition. However, Ghana had other plans.

A shock 0-0 draw highlighted the growing competitiveness of African football and exposed England’s struggles in breaking down disciplined defences. While a draw may not seem like a major upset on paper, the result significantly boosted Ghana’s qualification hopes while putting additional pressure on England.

The match served as another reminder that no team can afford to underestimate its opponent in modern international football.

New Zealand Earns Global Attention

New Zealand arrived at the tournament as one of the lowest-ranked teams in the competition. Few expected them to make headlines, yet they quickly became one of the tournament’s surprise packages.

Their ability to compete with stronger opposition and secure valuable points has challenged pre-tournament predictions. Analysts have pointed to New Zealand’s organization, discipline, and tactical awareness as key reasons behind their impressive performances.

The Rise of Competitive Draws

Traditionally, football fans associate upsets with shock victories. However, the 2026 World Cup has introduced a different trend.

Several of the tournament’s biggest surprises have been draws involving underdogs and tournament favourites. A notable example came during a day in which all four World Cup matches ended level, something not seen at the men’s World Cup since 1958. These results demonstrated how much the gap between football’s elite nations and emerging teams has narrowed.

Draws involving teams such as Cape Verde, Ghana, and other outsiders have arguably had a greater impact on the tournament than some outright victories.

How These Upsets Compare to World Cup History

Football history is filled with legendary World Cup shocks.

Some of the most famous include the United States defeating England in 1950, Cameroon beating defending champions Argentina in 1990, and Senegal stunning France in the opening match of the 2002 World Cup. More recently, Morocco’s incredible run to the 2022 semi-finals showed how quickly underdogs can become contenders.

The surprises witnessed in 2026 may not yet match those historic moments, but they are certainly following a similar pattern. Smaller nations are increasingly capable of competing with the world’s best teams.

What These Results Mean for the Knockout Stage

The biggest consequence of these upsets is uncertainty.

Teams that were expected to cruise through the group stage now face pressure heading into their remaining matches. At the same time, underdogs have gained confidence and belief that they can continue their remarkable journeys.

As the tournament progresses, the possibility of another surprise run similar to Morocco’s achievement in 2022 remains very real. Countries like Cape Verde have already shown that they belong on football’s biggest stage.

Lessons from the Tournament So Far

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has reinforced one important lesson: football is becoming more competitive globally.

Improved coaching, better player development, and increased international experience mean that smaller nations are no longer intimidated by traditional football powers. Every match now presents the potential for a surprise result.

That unpredictability is exactly what makes the World Cup the most exciting tournament in sport.

Final Thoughts

The biggest FIFA World Cup upsets so far have not necessarily been dramatic giant-killings but rather the consistent ability of underdogs to challenge and frustrate football’s elite. Cape Verde’s extraordinary debut campaign, Ghana’s resilience against England, and New Zealand’s unexpected competitiveness have all contributed to a tournament full of surprises.

As the group stage reaches its decisive phase and the knockout rounds approach, fans should expect even more twists. If the opening weeks of the tournament have taught us anything, it is that no result can be taken for granted at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The underdogs are no longer just participating—they are making history.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the biggest upset of the 2026 FIFA World Cup so far?

Cape Verde’s performances against Spain and Uruguay are widely considered among the biggest surprises of the tournament.

Why are there more upsets in the 2026 World Cup?

The expanded 48-team format has allowed more emerging football nations to compete, creating greater opportunities for surprise results.

Has a debut nation ever performed this well before?

Yes. Senegal in 2002 and Morocco in 2022 delivered memorable World Cup runs, and Cape Verde is following a similar path.

Are draws considered upsets in the World Cup?

Absolutely. When a heavily favored team fails to defeat a lower-ranked opponent, the result is often viewed as an upset, especially when it impacts qualification scenarios.

Could an underdog reach the semi-finals in 2026?

Based on the performances seen so far, another deep run by an underdog nation is entirely possible.