The World Cup is not only about celebrating the best teams on the planet, but also the dark horses who defy expectations.
Everyone already knows about Spain, France, England, Brazil, Argentina and the other favourites to win the tournament.
Many football fans would rather learn about the underdogs than the heavyweights — and we have that covered.
Here are three underrated nations who could realistically reach the latter stages of the 2026 World Cup.
Ivory Coast
Given that many will predict Senegal or Morocco to make a deep run, the Ivory Coast are the real African dark horse this summer.
They have responded well since losing 3-2 to Egypt in the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year.
The Elephants won 4-0 against South Korea and 1-0 against Scotland in their two friendlies during the March international break.
The Ivorian squad consists of many quality players from European clubs, such as Amad Diallo (Manchester United) and Nicolas Pepe (Villarreal).
Meanwhile, centre-back Ousmane Diomande and winger Yan Diomande are two of the top prospects in world football.
Therefore, the Ivory Coast should fancy their chances of making it out of Group G alongside Germany, Ecuador and Curacao.
Ecuador
The World Cup’s expansion from 32 to 48 teams means it will be easier than ever to reach the knockout rounds.
That is why two teams from Group G (the Ivory Coast and Ecuador) can both be considered dark horses to make a deep run.
Ecuador’s team is built on an excellent defensive unit, led by Arsenal’s Piero Hincapie, PSG’s Willian Pacho and Chelsea’s Moises Caicedo.
Fellow Chelsea wonderkid Kendry Paez and World Cup hero Enner Valencia will be responsible for providing the creative spark.
Ecuador have not lost since their 1-0 defeat to Brazil in September 2024, so they should not be overlooked heading into the World Cup.
Uruguay
Uruguay’s 1-1 draw with England at Wembley Stadium in March proved why they are a team to watch this summer.
Marcelo Bielsa’s side has a superb spine despite the absence of their greatest player, Luis Suarez.
Darwin Nunez, Federico Valverde, Manuel Ugarte, Ronald Araujo and Jose Maria Gimenez are just some of their Champions League-level players.
Plus, left-back Maximiliano Araujo, who has been linked with Man Utd and Arsenal, could be one of the breakthrough stars of the tournament.
Uruguay also have a favourable group (H), as they should have already beaten both Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde by the time they face Spain.
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