The 2026 World Cup has already delivered chaos in the group stage. From Spain’s humiliation against Cape Verde to Japan frustrating the Netherlands twice, the biggest upsets of World Cup 2026 are already being written into the history books. Here are the Top 5 shocks from the opening round of fixtures.
5th: Belgium 1-1 Egypt (Group G) — Salah steals a vital point
Belgium were firm favourites heading into this Group G opener, but Egypt had other ideas. Mohamed Salah was a constant menace, creating havoc down the left and forcing the Belgian defence into costly mistakes. The match ended 1-1, a result that leaves Belgium under real pressure.
Egypt showed that with Salah fit and firing, no team can afford to take them lightly. Group G is now wide open after the very first matchday.
4th: Brazil 1-1 Morocco (Group C) — Five-time champions stunned by the Atlas Lions
Brazil, one of the pre-tournament favourites, were held to a 1-1 draw by Morocco. The Atlas Lions replicated their famous 2022 defensive heroics, hitting back after going behind to leave the Selecao with just one point from their opener.
Morocco are not just a feel-good story anymore — they are a genuine threat. Brazil will need to regroup quickly. Group C is more competitive than anyone predicted.
3rd: Australia 2-0 Turkey (Group D) — Guler ghosted by ruthless Socceroos
Turkey arrived with Arda Guler as their headline act, a player many tipped to be a star of this tournament. Australia never gave him a moment to breathe. The Socceroos were disciplined, compact, and lethal on the counter — winning 2-0 in one of the most commanding performances of the opening round.
Turkey are now in serious trouble in Group D. Guler needs to perform, and quickly, or the Crescent Stars will be heading home early.
2nd: Japan 2-2 Netherlands (Group F) — The Samurai Blue strike again
Twice behind, twice Japan equalised. Against a strong Netherlands side, the Japanese showed the same resilience that shocked Germany and Spain at Qatar 2022. The final score: 2-2, with the Dutch looking stunned at the final whistle.
Japan’s tactical discipline remains among the very best in world football. Group F is wide open, and Japan are very much a team to watch in this World Cup.
1st: Spain 0-0 Cape Verde (Group H) — The biggest shock in modern World Cup history
There is no debate. This is the biggest upset of the 2026 World Cup — and possibly one of the most stunning results in the tournament’s entire history. Spain, ranked 2nd in the world by FIFA, could not score a single goal against Cape Verde. Final score: 0-0.
A gambler reportedly placed a bet worth $1 million on Spain to win. Every penny lost. Cape Verde set up in a disciplined low block and suffocated Spain’s creativity for 90 full minutes. Pedri, Yamal, Morata — all neutralised. Spain had the ball and did nothing with it.
Spain’s manager has serious questions to answer before their next fixture. Cape Verde fully deserved their point — they earned it with organisation, determination and belief. This result will define conversations about the 2026 World Cup for years to come.
FAQ — World Cup 2026 Biggest Upsets
What is the biggest upset of the 2026 World Cup so far?
Spain drawing 0-0 with Cape Verde in Group H is the tournament’s biggest shock. FIFA’s 2nd-ranked nation failed to score against a massive underdog, and a reported $1 million bet on Spain winning was lost.
Why couldn’t Spain beat Cape Verde?
Cape Verde deployed a disciplined low block that stifled Spain’s attacking play entirely. Despite dominating possession, Spain lacked the creativity and movement to break through the defence. Pedri, Yamal and Morata were all neutralised.
How did Japan draw with the Netherlands?
Japan equalised twice after going behind, showing exceptional tactical discipline and character. They replicated the fighting spirit that earned them wins against Germany and Spain at the 2022 World Cup. Japan remain one of the tournament’s most dangerous teams.
What other upsets happened in the group stage opener?
Australia beat Turkey 2-0 despite Arda Guler; Brazil were held 1-1 by Morocco; and Egypt’s Mohamed Salah helped earn a 1-1 draw against Belgium. It was one of the most chaotic opening rounds in World Cup history.
Who are the biggest surprise teams of the 2026 World Cup so far?
Cape Verde, Morocco, Australia and Egypt have been the biggest shocks of the opening round, proving that global football is more competitive than ever and that the so-called ‘big nations’ can no longer take anything for granted.
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