World cup 2026: The giants are finally waking up

Yinka ADETUNJI

The opening days of every FIFA world cup often produce surprises. Lesser-known nations rise to the occasion, favourites struggle to justify expectations and football lovers begin to wonder whether another fairytale is unfolding. The 2026 edition was no different.

Brazil were held to a draw by Morocco. Spain could not find a way past Cape Verde. Belgium shared the spoils with Egypt, while Uruguay also dropped points against Saudi Arabia. Suddenly, questions were being asked about whether the traditional powerhouses were losing their grip on world football.

Those questions have not disappeared, but the giants have started to respond.

Germany fired the first warning with an emphatic 7-1 victory over Curaçao, the biggest win of the tournament so far. France followed with a composed 3-1 triumph over Senegal, showing patience before their superior quality eventually prevailed. Argentina then announced their title defence in style with a commanding 3-0 victory over Algeria, inspired by another masterclass from Lionel Messi. England completed the sequence by defeating Croatia 4-2 in an entertaining encounter that showcased their attacking strength despite exposing defensive vulnerabilities.

One common feature stands out among these victories. Tournament experience still counts.

The world cup is unlike any other competition. It is not always the team that dazzles in one match that lifts the trophy a month later. More often, success belongs to teams that understand how to manage pressure, recover from difficult moments and improve as the tournament progresses. France, Argentina, Germany and England possess that experience in abundance.

That does not mean the tournament has become predictable. Far from it. The draws recorded by Brazil, Spain, Belgium and Uruguay serve as reminders that the gap between football’s established powers and emerging nations continues to narrow. Every match now demands concentration, tactical discipline and clinical finishing. Complacency has become increasingly expensive at the World Cup.

Still, the latest round of matches suggests that pedigree has begun to assert itself. The heavyweights are finding their rhythm, star players are delivering when it matters and the race for the trophy is gradually taking shape.

It remains early days, and many twists undoubtedly lie ahead. Injuries, suspensions and unexpected upsets will influence the journey. Yet one message has become increasingly clear: the football giants have heard the early doubts, and they are beginning to answer them in the most convincing way possible.

If the opening week is any indication, the road to the 2026 world cup title may once again pass through the game’s traditional powers. The challengers have made their intentions known, but the giants have finally awakened.