The FIFA World Cup 2026 expanded to 48 teams for the first time, and that bigger stage has already produced some of the most memorable underdog stories in tournament history. From debutant nations toppling giants to fancied contenders crashing out early, here is a look at the biggest upsets and Cinderella runs so far.
Cape Verde’s Historic Debut
Cape Verde qualified for its first-ever World Cup, a remarkable achievement for the small island nation. The team topped their qualifying group, including a commanding 3-0 win over Eswatini, and carried that momentum into the tournament, capturing neutral fans everywhere with their fearless style of play.
Nigeria’s Stunning Upset Over Spain
Few results shocked the football world like Nigeria’s 3-2 win over Spain, a side ranked more than 50 places above them. The Super Eagles backed it up with a gritty 1-0 win over Bulgaria, proving that the win was no fluke and putting the rest of the tournament on notice.
Curacao’s Cinderella Run
As one of the smallest nations ever to qualify, Curacao’s very presence at the World Cup was already historic. Their scrappy, disciplined performances in the group stage turned heads, and every point they picked up felt like a fairy tale chapter for a footballing minnow on the world’s biggest stage.
Uruguay’s Early Exit
Not every story was about the underdogs rising. Uruguay, managed by Marcelo Bielsa and considered a dark horse to go deep, were eliminated without registering a single win, a sobering reminder that reputation counts for little once the whistle blows.
Why Upsets Matter in an Expanded Format
With 48 teams instead of 32, more nations than ever have a genuine shot at reaching the knockout rounds, and that has made shocks more frequent and more meaningful. These stories of underdogs and fallen giants are exactly what organizers hoped the expanded format would deliver, and they have already made World Cup 2026 one of the most unpredictable editions in memory.
Images used in this article are sourced from Pexels and are free to use under the Pexels License. Match results and storylines referenced are based on the ongoing tournament and public reports, and details may evolve as the competition continues.