Which teams could be the surprise packages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup? Ask Dylan Appolis.
SOUTH AFRICA
Bafana Bafana could emerge as one of the teams to surprise at the World Cup given their progression, with the side showing a more disciplined and organised style of play, as well as stronger team unity under coach Hugo Broos. A key reason they could shock bigger nations is their mix of experienced players and exciting young talents, many of whom are gaining confidence in international competitions. South Africa have proved they can compete against stronger opponents when tactically organised and if they can maintain their consistency, they could potentially cause upsets and become one of the tournament’s unexpected heroes.
Key Players: Oswin Appollis, Relebohile Mofokeng, Teboho Mokoena, Mbekezeli Mbokazi.
JAPAN
Japan could be one of the teams to watch if you factor in their combination of tactical discipline, technical quality and their proven competitiveness on the international stage. The Samurai Blue have consistently proved they can compete with top nations, with most of their players playing in European clubs. Their cohesive team structure, high work rate, speed, organisation, and ability to execute quick counter-attacks make them a dangerous opponent, with the potential to cause upsets.
Key Players: Kaoru Mitoma, Takefusa Kubo, Wataru Endo, Daichi Kamada.
MEXICO
Mexico have a knack for upsetting teams on the world stage and have been a consistently good team at the global competition in recent history. El Tri will have the advantage of playing on home soil, but their squad of experienced players mixed with promising young talents could see them go far in the tournament. They have the quality and momentum to challenge bigger teams and potentially make a deep run into the tournament.
Key Players: Gilberto Mora, Edson Álvarez, Santiago Giménez, Raúl Jiménez.
NORWAY
Norway could be one of the most exciting nations to watch at the World Cup with players like Erling Haaland and given their run in the qualifiers in which they won all eight of their matches. The Scandinavian side have a growing pool of world-class players within their ranks, a high-pressing team, and are physically strong, with a direct style of play. Although they have been placed in a tough group alongside France and Senegal in Group I, Norway have some of the deadliest players at their disposal in their bid for the world title.
Key Players: Erling Haaland, Antonio Nusa, Alexander Sørloth, Martin Ødegaard.
AUSTRALIA
Australia’s never-say-die attitude at previous World Cups has already forged a reputation for competing and coming out on top against some of the best in the world. The Socceroos are known for their physicality, disciplined structure and fighting mentality, and they can frustrate higherranked teams and potentially produce an unexpected run in the tournament. They remain a dangerous underdog heading into this tournament and can upset any team on their day.
Key Players: Jackson Irvine, Mathew Ryan, Alessandro Circati, Nestory Irankunda.
