Is the rest of the world beginning to catch up to the giants of Europe and the Americas?

The ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026 is still in its early stages, yet the tournament has produced strong performances from multiple underdogs around the world, especially those hailing from Asia, Africa, Oceania, and so on. Such results forced us to ask a question: Is the rest of the world finally catching up to the giants of Europe and the Americas?

Recent results definitely hint in that direction.

Asia’s decent start

In the opening phase of the tournament, South Korea, ranked 22nd in the FIFA men’s rankings, defeated Czechia 2-1. Not only did South Korea win, but they also dominated Czechia with 62 per cent possession and 15 shots, including seven on target. The team also committed fewer fouls and had better pass accuracy.

No European nation has managed to beat Japan since 2019 🇯🇵🛡️

The Samurai Blue keep delivering statement results on the international stage 🌍 pic.twitter.com/iNZBsu00bV

— OneFootball (@OneFootball) June 14, 2026

On the other hand, Japan came back twice from behind against the Netherlands to secure a draw. The team had fewer shots, fewer possessions, fewer passes, and fewer corners, yet they stopped the Netherlands, one of the veteran European sides in the history of the FIFA World Cup.

Qatar also managed a 1-1 draw against a much superior Swiss side.

Africa’s run

On the opening day, South Africa lost to Mexico, but they put on a brilliant physical tussle and did not allow Mexico to breathe. Then, from North Africa, Morocco, the semi-finalist of the 2022 World Cup, once again shocked the football fraternity by holding Brazil to a 1-1 draw.

Brazil vs Morocco highlights in case you missed the match – one of the best games so far!
pic.twitter.com/hTdFxwSiha

— Speedline (@speedlinexx) June 14, 2026

Not to forget, even Côte d'Ivoire from West Africa scored a goal in the 90th minute and stole points from Ecuador. In the past, Ecuador has advanced past the group stage once, in 2006, but the Ivory Coast has never done so.

Oceania

From the Oceania region, Australia stunned Türkiye with a 2-0 victory despite the fact that the Türkiye Super Lig is a better domestic league than Australia’s A-League. The Aussies kept star players such as Arda Güler, Hakan Çalhanoğlu, and Kenan Yıldız at bay.

AUSTRALIA DOUBLE THEIR LEAD & HAVE BEAT TURKEY 2-0. 🇦🇺
📽️: @itvfootball pic.twitter.com/Tm1ZWW33zo

— ME24 - Middle East 24 (@MiddleEast_24) June 14, 2026

Overall, teams from Asia, Africa, and Oceania are still far behind in terms of quality compared to their European and American counterparts. However, in this edition, very few teams are allowing their opponents to steal points easily, which feels like progress. Teams from all quarters have been reduced to battle for one point instead of three.