The 2026 FIFA World Cup has barely passed the group stage and already the script has been torn up. Spain held goalless by Cape Verde, Ghana frustrating England to a scoreless draw, and Norway dismantling Senegal 3-2 — the expanded 48-team tournament is delivering shocks at every turn.

The format that changed everything

FIFA's new 48-team structure, split across 12 groups, has given more nations a seat at the table — and more opportunities for upsets. The top two teams from each group, plus the eight best third-placed sides, advance to the Round of 32. That means compact, defensively disciplined teams have more chances to face elite opponents and earn results that matter.

The North American summer heat has also played a role. European sides accustomed to cooler conditions have shown signs of fatigue in late-game phases, opening the door for late goals and dropped points.

Cape Verde stun Spain and Uruguay

The standout result of the group stage so far belongs to Cape Verde. On June 15, they held Spain — one of the pre-tournament favourites — to a 0-0 draw, frustrating their high-possession game with an organised defensive block. Any doubts about the result being a fluke were erased when Cape Verde then drew 2-2 with Uruguay.

For African football, the significance runs deep. Cape Verde are not among the continent's traditional football powers, yet they have proven that a well-drilled side with tactical discipline can neutralise elite opposition. Their performances have lifted spirits across the continent and underlined the tactical maturity developing in smaller football federations.

Ghana silence England

Ghana delivered one of the group stage's most disciplined performances on June 23, holding England to a 0-0 draw. The Black Stars absorbed sustained pressure, limited clear-cut chances, and left England — another of the pre-tournament favourites — without a breakthrough.

Across West Africa, the reaction was electric. The result demonstrated strong tactical organisation, physical resilience, and a belief that Ghana can compete with the best European sides. Even without a win, the statement was clear.

Norway's firepower and Australia's rise

Norway have emerged as one of the most dangerous sides in the tournament. They crushed Iraq 4-1 before beating Senegal 3-2, qualifying strongly from their group. Led by Erling Haaland, who has been among the most threatening strikers at the tournament, Norway combine relentless pressing, physical strength, and swift transitions. They are now a credible knockout-stage threat.

Australia have also turned heads. Their 2-0 win over Turkey in their opening match signalled a disciplined, high-energy campaign built on a compact defensive structure and sharp counter-attacks. Analysts had written the Socceroos off before a ball was kicked — those analysts are now reconsidering.

What comes next

The group stage is not yet finished, and its final shape remains uncertain. Whether Cape Verde can sustain their defensive intensity against stronger opposition, whether Ghana can convert performances into wins, and whether Australia are built for the pressure of knockout football — these are the questions that will define this tournament's next chapter.

What is already clear is that no lead feels safe, no favourite feels untouchable, and the 2026 World Cup is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable editions in the competition's history.