From giant killers to dream runs — these teams refused to follow the script at 2026 World Cup

Morocco – Another elite World Cup campaign

Some expected Morocco to regress after their historic 2022 semi-final run. Instead, they proved it was no fluke.

In the group stage, the Atlas Lions held five-time champions Brazil to a 1–1 draw before defeating both Scotland and Haiti.

Morocco, another NOP NIGERIA potential dark horse pick, knocked out powerhouse the Netherlands on penalties and proceeded to thrash co-hosts Canada 3–0 to reach the quarter-finals.

After reaching another quarter-final, Morocco became the first African nation to reach the last eight twice, etching their name in gold on the stage of international football.

Egypt – A long-awaited breakthrough

Although Africa’s most successful side, the Egyptians had never left their mark on the global stage, despite the Pharaohs being the first-ever African team to participate in a World Cup in 1934.

In 2026, after nearly 100 years of frustration and wasted opportunities, Egypt produced its best World Cup performance ever by reaching the Round of 16.

Blending experienced leadership with emerging talent, the Pharaohs displayed resilience throughout the tournament, overcoming difficult opponents and handling pressure in decisive moments.

A dramatic penalty shootout victory secured a place in the last 16 before Egypt pushed one of the tournament favourites, Argentina, in an entertaining, closely contested and controversial encounter that instantly became a classic.

Egypt lost a two-goal lead after a Video Assistant Referee review disallowed a potential goal, enabling Argentina to complete a late comeback and advance.

Although their campaign ended there, their performances demonstrated significant progress and marked a welcome return to competitiveness on football’s biggest stage, offering supporters renewed hope that the nation can once again establish itself among the world’s leading teams.

Canada – A historic breakthrough

As co-hosts, Canada benefited from home support, but few expected them to make history.

The Canadians earned the nation’s first-ever men’s World Cup victory with a 6–0 win over Qatar and advanced from a difficult group.

They defeated South Africa to reach the Round of 16 for the first time before falling to African powerhouse Morocco.

The team showed how much the Canadian programme has progressed under head coach Jesse Marsch.

Switzerland – Quiet consistency rewarded

Switzerland started their World Cup campaign relatively poorly after being held to a 1–1 draw against Qatar.

However, the European side bounced back quickly, thrashing Bosnia and Herzegovina 4–1 and then co-hosts Canada 2–1.

They also eliminated Algeria in the Round of 32 after a 2–0 victory and proceeded to eliminate Colombia from the Round of 16 on penalties.

In the quarter-finals, Switzerland put up a tough fight against Argentina before a red card to Breel Embolo totally changed the dynamic of the game.

Although their journey ended against one of the tournament’s eventual finalists, Switzerland reinforced its reputation as a team capable of competing with the world’s best.