While the top teams will inevitably dominate the headlines at the 2026 World Cup, several smaller nations will be hoping to make their mark this summer.
The tournament’s glittering history is littered with memorable examples of minnows upsetting the odds against higher-ranked opponents.
According to SportsView, here are some of the teams who will aim to add their names to World Cup folklore by shocking bigger opponents in North America.
Australia
Australia have produced some strong performances since former Crystal Palace defender Tony Popovic replaced Graham Arnold as head coach.
He has introduced a well-structured tactical structure, which could help Australia cause problems for some of the top teams during the World Cup.
The Aussies have been handed a tough draw in Group D alongside the United States, Paraguay and a qualifier from the European play-offs.
However, given that all of the teams will be closely matched, four points from their three group games could be enough to progress to the round of 32.
Australia reached the last-16 in 2006 and 2022, so progressing to that stage of the prestigious tournament is the minimum requirement this summer.
Upcoming friendlies against Cameroon and Curacao will give Popovic the opportunity to tweak his tactical system ahead of their opening game.
Given what Popovic has achieved up to this point, Australia could feasibly enjoy a productive campaign at the World Cup.
Saudi Arabia
Memories of the 2022 tournament still loom large for Saudi Arabia, particularly the stunning group-stage victory over eventual champions Argentina.
Reaching the last-16 in 1994 remains Saudi Arabia’s best World Cup finish, and a repeat of that achievement would be viewed as a major success.
The Saudis face a stern test in a group featuring Uruguay, Spain and Cape Verde. Uruguay and Spain are elite-level opposition, while Cape Verde have shown they are no pushovers.
The Falcons’ squad blends experience with younger talent. Salem Al-Dawsari provides leadership, tournament know-how and a proven ability to deliver on the biggest stage.
Younger players such as Musab Al-Juwayr add energy, while Saud Abdulhamid offers consistency in defence. The return of manager Herve Renard is another positive.
His familiarity with the group of players and previous track record in tournament football gives Saudi Arabia a tactical stability that cannot be understated.
If the Saudi team can reach their final group game against Cape Verde with their qualification hopes still alive, they could be a good bet to reach the last-32.
New Zealand
New Zealand secured their place at the World Cup courtesy of a comprehensive 3-0 win against New Caledonia in front of a jubilant Eden Park crowd.
They won each of their five qualifying games by a combined scoreline of 29-1, but will undoubtedly face much tougher challenges in North America.
Belgium are the overwhelming favourites to win Group C, but the Kiwis will fancy their chances against Egypt and Iran in their other fixtures.
New Zealand have never previously progressed to the knockout stage at the World Cup, so that will be the primary aim this summer.
Nottingham Forest striker Chris Wood will be crucial to their hopes. The 34-year-old is currently recovering from knee surgery, but should return before the end of the season.
Wood has scored 45 goals in 88 international appearances, and the Kiwis have no one else who can match his productivity in the final third.
Manager Darren Bazeley will be desperate to have Wood leading the line when New Zealand get their tournament underway against Iran.
Qatar
Qatar endured a difficult tournament on home soil in 2022, losing all three group-stage matches.
They were handed their place as hosts last time around, but have qualified on merit for the latest edition. This element should boost their confidence.
The two-time Asian Cup winners (2019 & 2023) have a core group of players that has played together for several years. The familiarity could benefit them this summer.
Akram Afif and Almoez Ali are central to their hopes of progression. Their chemistry and understanding of tournament football will be crucial if Qatar are to be competitive.
The appointment of Julen Lopetegui as manager adds a layer of intrigue. His CV speaks for itself, from international experience with Spain to European success at club level.
Qatar’s group features Switzerland, Canada and a UEFA play-off team. There are no overwhelming favourites in the section, which raises expectations.
Reaching the knockout phase and proving that their Asian Cup triumphs translate to the global stage would represent success for Qatar this summer.
