World Cup 2026 Dark Horses: Five teams that could shock the favorites

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, several teams are being identified as potential dark horses capable of surprising the favorites. Croatia, known for its strong midfield and tactical flexibility, is coming off impressive finishes in the last two tournaments, securing second place in 2018 and third in 2022. Meanwhile, Norway, featuring a 'Golden Generation' led by Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard, is set to make its first World Cup appearance since 1998. These teams, among others, are generating buzz as they prepare for the tournament starting June 11.

The emergence of dark horses like Croatia and Norway adds intrigue to the 2026 World Cup, which will feature 48 teams competing across 104 matches. Croatia's experience and tactical adaptability could allow them to navigate challenging matchups, while Norway's youthful exuberance may catch opponents off guard. As the tournament unfolds, the fitness of key players will be crucial; if teams like Canada maintain peak condition, they too could advance further than expected, making the competition even more unpredictable.

Croatia's potential tactical shift to a 3-4-2-1 formation could enhance their defensive solidity, allowing them to compete effectively against stronger opponents. This change, as indicated by coach Zlatko Dalic, is influenced by the players' familiarity with this system at their clubs. However, the team's lack of rapid forwards may necessitate a more patient approach in attack. Similarly, Norway's squad depth, featuring young talents alongside experienced players, positions them well to capitalize on any weaknesses in their opponents during the tournament.

As the World Cup kicks off on June 11, teams will face the challenge of maintaining player fitness amidst a grueling schedule. Croatia will need to leverage their tactical flexibility to adapt to various opponents, while Norway aims to harness their attacking prowess. The stakes are high, with the final scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if these dark horses can defy expectations and make a deep run in the tournament.