Three Possible Breakout Stars at the 2026 World Cup

The FIFA World Cup traditionally provides previously unheralded players with a platform to showcase their talent and announce themselves to the rest of the world.

With 48 teams set to participate for the first time in 2026, players from some of the lower-ranked nations will have the chance to make a name for themselves. Here are three talents who could shine.

Gilberto Mora – Club Tijuana – Mexico

Gilberto Mora is already attracting interest from some of the biggest clubs in Europe, and his performances at the World Cup could earn him a big-money move.

The attacking midfielder is capable of taking any game by the scruff of its neck, and his numbers are impressive. Mora has scored seven goals in 17 appearances across all competitions this season. He has already been capped five times by his country.

After his exceptional rise to fame, Mexico deliberated whether to fast-track Mora into the senior national team or allow him to continue his development at youth level. They have decided he is ready for the big stage and it would not be surprising if he ends up in one of Europe’s elite leagues this summer.

Mora was in excellent form for Mexico at the Under-20 World Cup, helping his country reach the quarter-finals with three goals and two assists. If he replicates those performances in the senior team next year, the sky is the limit.

Finn Surman – Portland Timbers – New Zealand

New Zealand defender Finn Surman is another potential breakout star who could take the 2026 World Cup by storm.

The 22-year-old has been a defensive regular since joining Portland Timbers, and his performances have caught the eye. The Kiwi betting community have taken notice. Portland have become a popular pick with bettors in the New Zealand sports betting industry, especially in markets such as ‘clean sheets’ and ‘win to nil’.

He racked up 38 appearances in all competitions last season, helping the Timbers keep six clean sheets. Surman dominated his 1v1 battles across the pitch. He is a force to be reckoned with in aerial duals, and his ability to make vital clearances is uncanny.

If New Zealand are going to defy the odds at the World Cup, Surman will need to be at his best. He is another player who could earn a big money move to Europe if he lives up to expectations.

El Hadji Malick Diouf – West Ham United – Senegal

El Hadji Malick Diouf was considered one of the most exciting young full-backs in Europe when he joined West Ham United. He has shown flashes of his potential with the Hammers.

The 20-year-old has weighed in with three assists in 16 Premier League games this season, but would have more under his belt is his attacking teammates were more prolific.

Diouf was one of several Senegal players who caught the eye when they beat England in an international friendly at the City Ground in June. He won 50 percent of his tackles and three out of six ground duels. He also made two clearances, two interceptions and five ball recoveries.

The full-back has proven that he can perform on the big stage, and the World Cup could be a perfect platform for him to offer a further glimpse of his considerable potential. He can get up and down the pitch and has a wand of a left foot, allowing him to pick out passes with precision.

Although Senegal have been drawn in a tough group at the World Cup, this could work to their advantage. If the West Ham star and his teammates reproduce the form they showed against the Three Lions, they could be a surprise package at the tournament.

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