World Cup dark horses: Ecuador, Mexico, Japan, Norway and Senegal

Key Points:

• The term "dark horse" in World Cup football refers to nations outside the elite who have the potential for a deep tournament run, often due to a golden generation of talent, with recent examples including Morocco in 2022 and Costa Rica in 2014.
• Key dark horse contenders for the 2026 World Cup include Mexico (North America), Norway (Europe), Senegal (Africa), Japan (Asia), and Ecuador (South America), with New Zealand as the default pick from Oceania.
• Mexico, co-hosts of the tournament, are unbeaten in 2026 qualifiers and have a strong squad led by captain Edson Alvarez and striker Raul Jimenez, aiming to win their first World Cup knockout match in 40 years.
• Norway boasts a golden generation led by Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard, having scored the most goals in European qualifying, but face a tough group with France, Senegal, and Iraq.
• Senegal, recent African champions despite controversy, combine experienced stars like Sadio Mane with emerging talent and a strong defensive record, while Japan and Ecuador also present tactically disciplined teams with potential to upset traditional powers.