What it feels like to pull off a World Cup upset: ...
Key takeaways
- For some nations, it only takes one memorable match to take a tournament from disaster to dreamland.
- After a disappointing draw with Curaçao, Ecuador coach Sebastian Beccacece revealed that his wife and daughter were confronted by an angry fan.
- The Paraguay fans in tears at Boston Stadium on Monday will only tell stories of Julio Enciso's goal and Jose Canale's winning penalty, and won't care a bit about their heavy opening defeat to the United States.
Why this matters: a sports story that could shift standings, legacies, or fan conversations.
From Cape Verde's draw with Spain to Ecuador's late winner against Germany and then Paraguay eliminating the four-time winners on penalties in the round of 32, the 2026 tournament has already delivered upsets that will be remembered forever.
For some nations, it only takes one memorable match to take a tournament from disaster to dreamland.
After a disappointing draw with Curaçao, Ecuador coach Sebastian Beccacece revealed that his wife and daughter were confronted by an angry fan. Fast-forward a few days, and Beccacece was jumping into the stands to celebrate with his family after victory over Germany earned the South Americans qualification for the round of 32.