​The 2026 FIFA World Cup delivered everything fans could have hoped for: drama, upsets, breakout stars, and a few jarring disappointments. While traditional powerhouses such as Spain, Argentina, France, and England eventually reached the semifinals, the path there was paved with surprising performances that nobody saw coming. And that brings us to today’s Question of the Day: Which World Cup team surprised you the most, and which team was the biggest disappointment? There are plenty of strong contenders on both sides of the debate.
For the biggest surprise, Norway deserves serious consideration. Many fans expected them to be a dangerous dark horse, but few anticipated a run to the quarterfinals that included a memorable upset of Brazil in the Round of 16. Their disciplined defensive work, clinical finishing, and fearless approach made them one of the tournament’s most uplifting stories.
Morocco once again demonstrated that its stunning 2022 performance was no fluke. Another deep run, highlighted by victories over the Netherlands and Canada before a semifinal exit to France, reinforced Morocco’s status as one of international football’s rising powers. Paraguay also turned heads by eliminating Germany on penalties, one of the tournament’s most shocking knockout-stage results.
On the flip side, several traditional powers failed to live up to expectations. Germany, in particular, will be cited by many fans as a disappointment. Entering the tournament with high hopes, Julian Nagelsmann’s side were eliminated in the Round of 32 after a defeat in a penalty shootout to Paraguay, leaving many to wonder why their potential didn’t translate into a longer run.
Brazil is another candidate for disappointment. They advanced through the first knockout round but fell earlier than anticipated, losing to Norway in the Round of 16. For a nation that traditionally enters every World Cup with trophy ambitions, that exit will sting for a long time.
Portugal also had reasons to feel frustrated. With a squad stocked with elite talent, they were unable to overcome Spain in the Round of 16, once again leaving supporters questioning whether this generation could have achieved more on the sport’s biggest stage.
Of course, every fan weighs the tournament differently. Some prioritize results, others assess teams by style of play, expectations, or how much talent seemed unrealized. So, what’s your take? Which team exceeded your expectations the most, and which team let you down the most? Share your picks and explain why.