World Cup 2026: Key Stats and Insights from the First 24 Matches

Initial Observations from the World Cup 2026

The first round of fixtures at the World Cup is complete, and we've seen all 48 teams in action. A thorough analysis of the Opta data has uncovered several interesting facts that may not have been immediately apparent from the scorelines.

Mexico's Slow Build-Up and South Africa's Lack of Threat

Mexico moved the ball upfield slower than any other team in the first round of fixtures. They could afford to take their time as South Africa offered next to no threat. It's unlikely to end well when a team receives as many red cards as they have touches in the opposition penalty area, which was the case for the losing side.

Set-Piece Prowess: A Key Factor in Several Matches

The game between South Korea and Czechia featured one of the trademarks of the 2025-26 Premier League season. The former West Ham defender Vladimir Coufal launched a long throw-in, which the Wolves centre-back Ladislav Krejci headed home to give Czechia the lead. South Korea were worthy winners, with the 25-pass buildup to Hwang In-beom's equaliser being the joint-fifth longest passing sequence leading to a goal in the World Cup since records began in 1966.

The Impact of Draws in the Competition

There have already been nine draws in the World Cup. Even allowing for the World Cup being bigger than ever, the proportion of draws in this phase of the competition has never been higher. Is this a byproduct of a bloated format with little jeopardy for most teams?

Underperforming Favorites

Teams like Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, and Uruguay had the ball where a team would want it and generated at least 25 shots. However, the quality of their chances was lacking. A reasonable expected goals tally looks far less impressive when divided among numerous low-probability efforts from long range.

Rise of the Underdogs

The so-called minnows have defensive fortitude that they did not always carry in the past. Giants be warned.