The 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially begun in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, ending four years of anticipation. Defending champions Argentina start their campaign against Algeria on June 17, aiming to become only the third nation to retain the trophy. Lionel Messi and his team are among the favorites, but they face stiff competition from Brazil, Germany, France, Spain, and England.
Japan: A Tactical Contender
Many football fans have identified Japan as a potential dark horse. One X user commented, "I'm secretly riding with Japan. They've got the tactical discipline of a chess grandmaster, a squad that never quits, and they already showed they can scalp big teams in friendlies." Another added, "Japan have impressed in their friendlies ahead of the World Cup indeed! I think we should consider Japan as a dark horse. They can even challenge Netherlands for the group win." A third fan noted, "For me, Japan are the dark horse of this tournament. The way they've been playing lately, you just can't write them off." Japan, known as the Samurai Blue, face the Netherlands, Sweden, and Tunisia in Group F. They famously defeated England 1-0 at Wembley in March, with Kaoru Mitoma scoring the winner.
Norway: Haaland's Threat
Others believe Norway, led by Erling Haaland, could surprise. Having qualified for their first World Cup since 1998, they are in Group I with France, Senegal, and Iraq. One X user said, "Because of the 48-team expansion they are my dark horse of the tournament. Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard are quietly flying under the radar. With that world-class attack, don't be shocked when Norway goes way deeper than anyone expects." Another noted, "Norway might be the undisputed dark horses of this World Cup. They scored 37 goals and conceded just 5 in qualifiers." However, some fans pointed out the tough draw, with one stating, "Quite a few on-paper dark horses like Morocco, Senegal, Japan have terrible draws."
As the tournament progresses, fans will watch to see if these predictions come true. Who is your dark horse for the World Cup?
