When we think of recent World Cup dark horses, there’s been a number of nations who have defied World Cup odds and proved their mettle among the planet’s finest.
Bulgaria ’94, Croatia ’98, Turkey, Senegal and South Korea ’02, Ghana ’10 and of course, Morocco last time out in Qatar spring to mind. In fact, since the very first edition of football’s greatest extravaganza in 1930, almost every tournament has produced an underdog.
Having an unexpected nation run amok is something that fans simply love to see on the biggest stage on earth. The heroic tales live long in the memory and often define the younger generation to go on and reach similar heights of their predecessors.
So with that in mind, who are the likeliest contenders who could match Morocco’s fairytale run to the semis in 2022? BetVictor News takes a look at five nations to consider when it comes to 2026 World Cup betting this summer.
2026 World Cup Dark Horses
5. Senegal
On paper, they may not be the 2025 AFCON champions but in their hearts they most certainly are. Senegal – led by the magnificent Sadio Mane – are certainly a nation worth keeping an eye on. The West Africans stunned reigning champions France in the 2002 group stage and went all the way to the quarter-finals that year.
Aliou Cisse’s side have a strong mix of players who boast youthful exuberance as well as seasoned pros who offer cool heads under pressure. The Lions of Teranga have been drawn alongside France and Norway in Group I – but it wouldn’t be a huge surprise to see them beat either side.
- World Cup winner odds: 100/1
- World Cup runners-up odds: 50/1
- World Cup semi-finalists odds : 20/1
- World Cup quarter-finalists odds: 11/2
4. Colombia
Perhaps not considered a World Cup dark horse by all, but we are going to make an allowance for Colombia on our list. The South Americans have never advanced past the quarter-final stage and last reached the last eight in 2014 – which is their best finish to date.
James Rodriguez was the star of the show 12 years ago and he will once again be the South Americans main man. Former Liverpool ace Luis Diaz and Sporting’s Luis Suarez also complement the attack. Crystal Palace defender Daniel Munoz is also present. Nestor Lorenzo’s side will face Uzbekistan and DR Congo in the group stages alongside Portugal – meaning qualification is favourable.
- World Cup winner odds: 40/1
- World Cup runners-up: 20/1
- World Cup semi-finalists: 6/1
- World Cup quarter-finalists: 11/4
3. Ecuador
Another South American nation who will feel could fare well is Ecuador. Especially as their rock-solid defence conceded just five times in 18 qualifiers. If that wasn’t impressive enough, they are on a 17-game undefeated run which included wins over Argentina, Colombia, and draws against Holland and Morocco.
Led by manager Sebastian Beccacece, the Tricolours are renowned for their energetic and industrious style of play. They can rely on the experience of Premier League stars Moises Caicedo and Piero Hincapie and many will be backing them to advance past the last 16 – which was their best performance in the tournament which occurred in 2006.
- World Cup winner odds: 80/1
- World Cup runners-up: 33/1
- World Cup semi-finalists: 20/1
- World Cup quarter-finalists: 9/2
2. Norway
One of the most obvious and popular World Cup dark horses is Norway. Especially as they can call upon the firepower of Erling Haaland. When it comes to the World Cup Golden Boot odds, the global superstar is one of the favourites alongside Kylian Mbappe and Harry Kane.
If the Man City star can carry on where he left off in qualifying, where he scored 16 goals, the Scandinavians will surely be a threat. And with Martin Odegaard, Sander Berge, Alexander Sorloth and Antonio Nusa on board, Stale Solbakken’s side will cause quite the concern for France and Senegal in Group I.
- World Cup winner odds: 25/1
- World Cup runners-up: 10/1
- World Cup semi-finalists: 9/2
- World Cup quarter-finalists: 2/1
1. Japan
Having pushed a prime Belgium side all the way in 2018 and beating Spain and Germany in the group stages four year later, Japan will be well worth considering for a deep run. Although Croatia got the better of them in Qatar – albeit on penalties – the Asian nation are incredibly difficult opponents to navigate.
England and Scotland lost to the Blue Samurai in March but most notably, Hajime Moriyasu’s side beat Brazil 3-2 in a friendly last October. Moriyasu will have to make do without Brighton’s Kaoru Mitoma who is the headline omission. Elsewhere, the Japanese have the likes of Zion Suzuki, Wataru Endo, Ko Itakura and Takehiro Tomiyasu to rely upon.
- World Cup winner odds: 40/1
- World Cup runners-up: 20/1
- World Cup semi-finalists: 9/1
- World Cup quarter-finalists: 11/4
Honourable 2026 World Cup Dark Horse Mentions
Naturally, picking just five potential World Cup dark horses from an expanded format of 48 teams meant a number of nations weren’t included. However, it’s only fair that BetVictor recognises those who could also rustle feathers in North America.
- USMNT – Co-hosts led by Mauricio Pochettino and have AC Milan’s Christian Pulisic to call upon
- Mexico – Another co-host who can boast potential World Cup wonderkid Gilberto Mora
- Scotland – First appearance since 1998, 2025 Ballon d’Or nominee Scott McTominay could shine once more
- Turkey – Have Real Madrid’s Arda Guler and Juventus posterboy Kenan Yildiz
- Morocco – Perhaps lost their underdog tag somewhat in Qatar. Would create more headlines if the quarters were reached
If you intend to bet on the 2026 World Cup, then please take the time to read through BetVictor’s safe and responsible gambling page which will provide good advice on how to stay in control when betting on football.
Any betting decisions should be made responsibly and there are no guarantees when it comes to match outcomes. Odds correct as of 2pm, May 28, 2026 and are subject to change.
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