World Cup 2026: Meet the nations making their tournament debuts 🌍 | OneFootball

The expanded 48-team format at the World Cup has opened the door for new footballing nations to reach the sport’s biggest stage. 

Let's meet the four countries hoping to spring a surprise in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Cabo Verde

📸 ROBERTO SCHMIDT - AFP or licensors

Cabo Verde’s rise has been one of African football’s great underdog stories. A nation of just over half a million people, the Blue Sharks have steadily improved over the past decade, reaching two Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals before finally securing their first World Cup qualification. They topped their CAF qualifying group with seven wins from ten matches, conceding only eight goals throughout the campaign.

Much of their success has been built around defensive organisation and discipline under coach Bubista. Forward Dailon Livramento was their key attacking threat during qualification, while experienced defender Pico Lopes brought leadership and composure at the back. Cape Verde also possess dangerous technical players in midfield capable of frustrating bigger nations on the counterattack.

At the World Cup they face a daunting Group H alongside Spain, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia. Despite the challenge, their compact style could make them difficult opponents.

Curaçao

📸 ROBIN VAN LONKHUIJSEN

Curaçao’s qualification may be the most remarkable of all. With a population of around 150,000, they become the smallest nation ever to qualify for a World Cup. Their rise has been driven by intelligent recruitment of Dutch-Curaçaoan dual nationals and the influence of veteran coach Dick Advocaat.

The Caribbean side topped their final qualifying group and built momentum through a fearless attacking style. Gervane Kastaneer starred during qualification with five goals, while former Manchester United winger Tahith Chong adds pace and creativity in transition. Midfielders Leandro Bacuna and Juninho Bacuna provide experience from European football and help give the side composure in possession.

Curaçao have been drawn into Group E with Germany, Ecuador and Ivory Coast. It is an extremely difficult group, but Curaçao’s attacking confidence means they are unlikely to sit back quietly.

Jordan

📸 JEWEL SAMAD - AFP or licensors

Jordan’s qualification marks a huge moment for Middle Eastern football. After finishing runners-up at the 2023 Asian Cup, belief around the national side grew rapidly and carried into World Cup qualifying. Despite an inconsistent start, Jordan recovered brilliantly to secure qualification through a combination of attacking flair and resilience.

Their attack is led by Mousa Al-Tamari, arguably the greatest player in the country’s history. The winger’s speed, dribbling and direct running make him a constant threat on the break. Alongside him, Yazan Al-Naimat and Ali Olwan formed one of Asia’s most productive front lines during qualifying. Jordan’s aggressive attacking style could make them one of the tournament’s surprise entertainers.

Jordan have been placed in Group J alongside Argentina, Austria and Algeria. Facing the reigning world champions will be a historic moment for the Nashama.

Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan have spent years knocking on the door of World Cup qualification and finally broke through in 2026, becoming the first Central Asian nation ever to reach the tournament. They consistently challenged Asia’s strongest sides during qualifying and ultimately secured their place with disciplined, organised performances.

Captain Eldor Shomurodov remains the team’s biggest attacking weapon thanks to his intelligent movement and finishing ability. However, much excitement surrounds Manchester City defender Abdukodir Khusanov, whose athleticism and composure have already made him one of the world's most promising young defenders. Under Fabio Cannavaro, Uzbekistan have become tactically disciplined while still carrying attacking quality.

They've been drawn in a tough group against Portugal, Colombia and DR Congo, but expectations around the team are growing rapidly after years of progress. Uzbekistan’s blend of experience and emerging talent means they could become one of the most competitive debut nations at the tournament.

📸 Anvar Ilyasov - 2025 Getty Images