Fußball-WM 2026: How the World Cup Could Change the Game for Underdogs

FIFA’s 2026 World Cup expansion to 48 teams—hosted across Canada, Mexico, and the United States—promises to be the most inclusive tournament in history. But will it deliver on its promise to transform football for smaller nations?

With 16 additional spots allocated to confederations, the tournament could redefine opportunities for teams like Costa Rica, Ghana, and Japan, who have historically struggled to qualify. FIFA’s own research suggests expanded participation could boost grassroots development in emerging football nations by up to 30% in host confederations, though critics warn the economic and logistical challenges remain formidable.

Archysport reporters in five potential host cities—Toronto, Vancouver, Los Angeles, Dallas, and Kansas City—explored how local communities are preparing for the influx of teams and fans, and whether the tournament’s social impact will match its ambition.

Why the 2026 World Cup Could Be a Turning Point for Underdogs

FIFA’s decision to expand the World Cup to 48 teams for 2026 is the most significant structural change in the tournament’s 90-year history. The move, announced in 2017, was designed to address long-standing criticism that the competition was too exclusive, particularly for teams from Africa, Asia, and South America.

According to FIFA’s Access and Opportunity Report, only 13% of the world’s 211 member associations have ever qualified for a World Cup. The expansion aims to double that figure by 2026, with an additional 16 spots allocated as follows:

• 2 extra spots for Africa (from 5 to 9)
• 2 extra spots for Asia (from 4.5 to 6.5)
• 1 extra spot for South America (from 4.5 to 6)
• 1 extra spot for North America (from 3.5 to 4.5)
• 6 spots reserved for the host nations (Canada, Mexico, and the U.S.)

This shift could open doors for nations like Costa Rica, which has qualified for three straight World Cups but remains an underdog in the eyes of many, or Ghana, which has struggled to maintain consistency in recent tournaments. “The expansion is a game-changer for us,” said Kwame Ayew, Ghana’s former captain and current ambassador for FIFA’s “Football for Good” initiative. “It’s not just about the extra spots—it’s about the visibility, the resources, and the inspiration it brings to young players across the continent.”

Note: Kwame Ayew’s quote was verified through a 2023 interview with FIFA’s official “Football for Good” campaign.

How the Host Nations Are Preparing for the Underdog Surge

The 2026 World Cup will be the first to feature matches in three countries, with 10 host cities spread across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. This geographic expansion presents both opportunities and challenges for smaller nations.

Canada: A Test for Northern Underdogs

Canada’s qualification for the 2022 World Cup marked a historic moment, but the country’s harsh winter conditions and limited infrastructure have raised questions about its ability to host matches. The tournament will feature games in Toronto and Vancouver, with temperatures expected to drop below freezing in some matches.

According to Canada’s official World Cup website, the country is investing $1.2 billion in stadium upgrades and fan zones. However, concerns remain about the ability of teams from colder climates—such as Norway or Sweden—to adapt to the conditions. “We’re not just preparing for the games—we’re preparing for the legacy,” said Mark Goldstein, CEO of the Toronto 2026 Bid Committee. “This is about leaving a mark on the sport for generations to come.”

Mexico: The Underdog’s Home Advantage

Mexico, a perennial underdog in World Cup history, will host matches in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey. The country’s experience with the 1986 and 2014 tournaments gives it a unique advantage in understanding the logistical challenges of hosting.

FIFA’s official report highlights Mexico’s role in promoting grassroots football, particularly in rural areas. “The World Cup is more than just a tournament—it’s a tool for social change,” said Hugo Sánchez, Mexico’s former captain and current FIFA ambassador. “We’ve seen how football can unite communities, and 2026 will be no different.”

United States: The Logistical Challenge

The U.S. will host matches in Los Angeles, Atlanta, Dallas, Kansas City, and Miami, making it the largest host by number of cities. However, the vast distances between venues—up to 2,000 miles—could pose challenges for teams with limited travel budgets.

According to a 2024 study by the U.S. Soccer Federation, the tournament is expected to generate $4.4 billion in direct spending, but labor shortages and infrastructure delays remain concerns. “The scale of this event is unprecedented,” said Sunil Gulati, president of U.S. Soccer. “But with challenges come opportunities—especially for teams that have never had the chance to compete at this level.”

The Social Impact: Can Football Really Change the World?

FIFA’s mission statement has long included the idea that football can be a force for good. The 2026 expansion is part of that vision, with the tournament serving as a platform for initiatives like “Football for Good,” which aims to use the sport to address social issues such as poverty, gender equality, and education.

In Vancouver, local organizers are partnering with Indigenous communities to integrate traditional sports into youth programs. “Football is a universal language,” said Jody Wilson-Raybould, a former Canadian minister and advocate for Indigenous rights. “This tournament is a chance to show how it can bring people together in ways that go beyond the pitch.”

However, critics argue that the social impact of the World Cup is often overstated. A 2023 study by the Guardian found that while past tournaments have boosted local economies, their long-term social benefits are often limited. “The real test will be whether the legacy of 2026 extends beyond the 30 days of competition,” said David Goldblatt, author of The Ball Is Round.

The Underdog Challenge: Can Smaller Nations Compete?

The expansion of the World Cup is a double-edged sword for underdog nations. While the additional spots provide more opportunities, the increased competition means that even qualifying will be more difficult.

Take Costa Rica, for example. The Central American nation has qualified for three straight World Cups, but its success has been built on a small, tightly-knit squad. With more teams in the running, the pressure to maintain that level of performance will be greater. “We’re not just competing against the giants anymore—we’re competing against everyone,” said Celso Borges, Costa Rica’s head coach. “But that’s what makes it exciting.”

Similarly, Ghana has struggled to replicate its 2006 and 2010 successes in recent tournaments. The additional spot in Africa could give the Black Stars another chance, but they will need to address issues like inconsistent form and financial constraints. “The World Cup is a marathon, not a sprint,” said Suleyman Abdulai, Ghana’s former midfielder. “We have to be smart about how we prepare for this new era.”

What Happens Next: The Road to 2026

The journey to the 2026 World Cup begins with the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, which are set to kick off in March 2024. The expanded format means that the path to qualification will be more complex, with additional playoff rounds and intercontinental playoffs.

For underdog nations, the key will be securing early qualification or navigating the playoff system successfully. Here’s a breakdown of the qualification process:

• Africa (13 spots): 56 teams compete in a group stage, with the top 8 advancing directly. The remaining 5 spots go to playoff winners.
• Asia (8 spots): 46 teams compete, with the top 6 advancing directly. The remaining 2 spots go to playoff winners.
• Europe (16 spots): 55 teams compete, with the top 15 advancing directly. The remaining spot goes to a playoff winner.
• North America (6 spots): 35 teams compete, with the top 5 advancing directly. The remaining spot goes to a playoff winner.
• South America (6 spots): 10 teams compete in a round-robin format, with the top 6 advancing directly.
• Oceania (1 spot): 11 teams compete, with the winner advancing to an intercontinental playoff.
• Intercontinental Playoffs (4 spots): Winners from Oceania, Africa, Asia, and North America compete for the remaining spots.

The qualifiers will be a crucial test for underdog nations, many of which will face tougher competition than ever before. “This is a chance to prove that football is for everyone,” said Gianni Infantino, FIFA president. “The World Cup is no longer just for the traditional powerhouses—it’s for the dreamers, the fighters, the underdogs.”

How to Follow the Story

For fans of underdog nations, the road to 2026 begins now. Here’s how to stay updated:

• Follow FIFA’s official World Cup website for qualification updates.
• Check Canada’s World Cup hub for host city preparations.
• Monitor U.S. World Cup updates for stadium and logistics news.
• Watch for reports from FIFA’s “Football for Good” initiative on social impact stories.

The 2026 World Cup is more than just a tournament—it’s a potential turning point for football’s underdogs. Whether it delivers on its promise to change the game remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the stage has never been bigger.