2026 World Cup Preview: Dark Horse Teams That Could Surprise

The tournament has added 16 teams for a field of 48, with plenty of clubs that could pull off a shocker. Who’s ready to see New Zealand make a deep run?
2026 World Cup Preview: Dark Horse Teams That Could Surprise
A 2026 FIFA World Cup logo at a press conference held by the Belgian national soccer team in Atlanta on March 27, 2026. The team was preparing for a friendly match against the United States in preparation for the World Cup. Dirk Waem/Belga Mag/AFP via Getty Images
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The biggest sporting event in the world is on the horizon. In popularity, it dwarfs the Olympics, the Super Bowl, or the Cricket World Cup.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will begin on June 11, with the United States, Canada, and Mexico cohosting.

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Ross Kelly
Ross Kelly
Author
Ross Kelly is a sports journalist who has been published by ESPN, CBS and USA Today. He has also done statistical research for Stats Inc. and Synergy Sports Technology. A graduate of LSU, Ross resides in Houston.