World Cup 2026: Upsets, fan fever, and team drama as tournament unfolds across continents

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is well underway across North America, already delivering surprising results and generating immense fan excitement amidst several ongoing controversies. Early in the group stage, underdog teams have produced notable upsets, including Australia's 2-0 victory over favored Türkiye, Japan's late 2-2 draw with the Netherlands, and Ivory Coast's narrow 1-0 win against Ecuador. Morocco also secured a commendable 1-1 draw against five-time champions Brazil, further highlighting the competitive nature of the expanded 48-team tournament.

Fan engagement is at an all-time high, with host cities like Miami, New York, and Los Angeles implementing innovative "stadiums without walls" concepts. These initiatives feature expansive fan zones, pop-up events, and luxury activations to provide immersive experiences for supporters beyond the official match venues. Seattle and Philadelphia are also hosting significant fan celebrations, offering live match broadcasts, cultural programming, and interactive activities for thousands of attendees.

However, the tournament has not been without its drama, primarily stemming from geopolitical and logistical issues. Controversies surrounding U.S. immigration and visa policies have affected players, officials, and fans from several participating nations, notably Iran, whose team faced visa denials for some staff and had their base camp relocated. High ticket prices have also drawn criticism and led to investigations, while the opening match itself between Mexico and South Africa saw a record three red cards.