World Cup 2026 Round One Recap: Biggest Surprises and Best Teams

The opening round of the FIFA World Cup 2026 has already delivered everything football fans were hoping for: surprise results, dominant victories, exciting moments and several teams that have immediately shown they could make a deep run in the tournament.

Every nation has now played its opening match, giving fans their first look at the favorites, the dark horses and the teams that still have work to do before the knockout stage begins.

Official tournament information: FIFA World Cup 2026

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Morocco Continue to Surprise the Football World

One of the biggest stories of Round One was Morocco's impressive 1–1 draw against Brazil.

Most fans expected Brazil to begin the tournament with a comfortable victory, but Morocco once again proved that their success at the 2022 World Cup was no accident.

Their defensive organization frustrated Brazil throughout the match, while quick counterattacks created several dangerous opportunities.

If Morocco continue to perform at this level, another deep tournament run is entirely possible.

Official Morocco team: FIFA – Morocco

Japan Show Why They're a Dark Horse

Japan continued their impressive recent World Cup form by earning a hard-fought 2–2 draw against the Netherlands.

Their disciplined defending, intelligent movement and quick transitions caused problems for one of Europe's strongest teams throughout the match.

Japan have once again shown they are capable of competing with football's biggest nations.

Official Japan team: JFA Samurai Blue

Sweden Make One of the Strongest Starts

Sweden produced one of the most complete performances of Round One with a convincing 5–1 victory over Tunisia.

Their attack looked dangerous from the first minute, while the defence stayed organized throughout most of the match.

Sweden immediately established themselves as one of the tournament's most impressive teams.

Official Sweden team: Svensk Fotboll

Germany Send an Early Message

Germany made one of the strongest statements of the opening round with a dominant 7–1 victory over Curaçao.

The Germans controlled the match from start to finish, creating chances regularly and finishing clinically in front of goal.

Their performance reminded everyone why they are considered one of the favorites to win the tournament.

Official Germany team: DFB National Team

Türkiye Face Early Pressure

Türkiye entered the tournament with high expectations thanks to one of the youngest and most talented squads in the competition.

However, a 2–0 defeat against Australia means they are already under pressure heading into Round Two.

Their quality is undeniable, but the next match could be crucial for their hopes of reaching the knockout stage.

Official Türkiye team: Türkiye Football Federation

Biggest Surprise Teams After Round One

After the opening round, several teams have exceeded expectations.

The biggest positive surprises so far include:

• Morocco
• Sweden
• Japan
• Australia
• Ivory Coast

These teams have shown that organization, teamwork and confidence can compete with even the biggest football nations.

Current Group Situation

Every team has now completed its opening match, giving supporters an early look at the group standings.

While several favorites sit at the top of their groups, others already face important matches if they want to qualify for the knockout stage.

You can also explore every group and team in the tournament.

Looking Ahead to Round Two

Round Two will be even more important than the opening matches.

Several teams can secure an excellent position in their group, while others will need a positive result to keep their qualification hopes alive.

Every point becomes increasingly valuable as the knockout stage gets closer.

Want to see every upcoming match? View the full World Cup schedule.

Before making your next predictions, don't forget to read our complete prediction guide.

Create Your Own World Cup Prediction League

Round One proved once again that World Cup football is impossible to predict perfectly.

Now it's your turn to see if you can beat your friends. Create your own prediction league, invite your friends and compete throughout the tournament.

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