By Igor Brisa

The early stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup have highlighted the growing competitiveness of international football, with a number of closely contested matches involving some of the tournament’s strongest teams.

While pre-tournament favourites often enter the competition carrying the weight of expectation, modern international football is becoming increasingly competitive. The gap between many of the world’s elite nations and emerging football countries appears smaller than in previous decades. One major factor is organisation. Teams that were once considered outsiders now arrive at World Cups with well-structured defensive systems, clear tactical identities, and players competing at the highest levels of club football. As a result, underdogs are far better equipped to frustrate and challenge more established nations.

Another reason is preparation. International football offers limited time for teams to work together compared to club football. Well-drilled, disciplined sides can often neutralise opponents with greater individual talent by staying compact, organised, and patient.

Early results have already provided evidence of this growing competitiveness. Brazil drew with Morocco, Belgium were held by Egypt, Spain were unable to break down Cape Verde, and Portugal shared the points with DR Congo.

Why Reputation Alone Is No Longer Enough

The expanded 48-team format may also be playing a role. More nations now have the opportunity to compete on football’s biggest stage, bringing fresh styles, new talent, and a greater level of unpredictability to the tournament.

Perhaps most importantly, reputation no longer guarantees results. Every participating nation has demonstrated its quality either through qualification or by earning automatic entry as a host nation, and every team has the ability to cause problems when given the opportunity.

It is still too early to identify the eventual champions, but the opening matches have already highlighted a simple truth: there are no easy games at a modern World Cup.

As the tournament continues, fans can expect more surprises, more closely contested matches, and further evidence that international football has never been more competitive.

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