Which dark horses reached the 2026 World Cup quarterfinals?

Morocco reached the quarterfinals after beating the Netherlands and Canada. Norway also made it to the quarterfinals, overcoming Côte d'Ivoire and Brazil. Paraguay advanced to the quarterfinals by defeating Germany and France.

How far did Morocco go in the 2026 World Cup?

Morocco reached the quarterfinals of the 2026 World Cup. They were eliminated after losing 2–0 to France in the quarterfinals.

Did Paraguay beat Germany in the 2026 World Cup?

Yes, Paraguay caused a major upset by defeating Germany in a penalty shootout in the Round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup.

What did the 2026 World Cup dark horse trades teach us?

The 2026 World Cup dark horse trades reinforced the value of bracket-progression contracts over outright winners for more targeted trading. They also showed that while upsets can occur, sustained success often remains with established powerhouses, and market re-pricing is a critical factor for traders.

Sports · 7 min read

World Cup 2026 Dark Horses: Morocco, Norway, Paraguay's Runs

By Catie Di StefanoPublished May 15, 2026Updated August 7, 2026

The 2026 World Cup saw Morocco, Norway, and Paraguay make surprising runs into the quarterfinals, challenging the favorites before their eventual eliminations. This article looks back at their performances and market reactions.

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Independent educational guide. Not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to FIFA or any official World Cup body.

World Cup 2026 Dark Horses: Morocco, Norway, Paraguay's Runs

Sources

Every figure on this page is checked against primary sources — regulator filings, exchange documentation and official results. Prices and rules change; verify with the operator before trading.

1.Kalshi Help Center — fees, funding and account rules — Kalshi
2.Kalshi market listings and contract rulebooks — Kalshi
3.Polymarket documentation — markets, fees and resolution — Polymarket
4.Polymarket Learn — how the exchange works — Polymarket
5.2026 men's World Cup fixtures, results and standings — ESPN
6.Soccer coverage and match reports — Associated Press

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Frequently asked questions

Which dark horses reached the 2026 World Cup quarterfinals?: Morocco reached the quarterfinals after beating the Netherlands and Canada. Norway also made it to the quarterfinals, overcoming Côte d'Ivoire and Brazil. Paraguay advanced to the quarterfinals by defeating Germany and France.
How far did Morocco go in the 2026 World Cup?: Morocco reached the quarterfinals of the 2026 World Cup. They were eliminated after losing 2–0 to France in the quarterfinals.
Did Paraguay beat Germany in the 2026 World Cup?: Yes, Paraguay caused a major upset by defeating Germany in a penalty shootout in the Round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup.
What did the 2026 World Cup dark horse trades teach us?: The 2026 World Cup dark horse trades reinforced the value of bracket-progression contracts over outright winners for more targeted trading. They also showed that while upsets can occur, sustained success often remains with established powerhouses, and market re-pricing is a critical factor for traders.

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