Every year there are three or four teams who have a bunch of talented players capable of leading their side to glory. Yet, they are not touted as favourites due to their inexperience. West Germany did it in 1954 when they shocked the world by defeating the Ferenc Puskas-led Hungary side in the final.
This edition of World Cup will be no different as there are a number of very talented teams who are clearly not the favourites but are capable of shocking the world and winning the ultimate glory.
Belgium
Belgium has a very strong side with world class players like Eden Hazard, Kevin De Bruyne and Thibaut Courtois. This is considered to be Belgium’s golden generation but they have regularly under-performed on the big stage as they bowed out in the quarter-final against Argentina in 2014 and against Wales in 2016.
Belgium will be the dark horse yet again as their fans will be hoping that their side finally comes good on the big stage and beat all odds to become the world champions for the first time.
Uruguay
Uruguay is led by their talisman Luis Suarez once again. Uruguay, who were crowned champions twice during the initial editions of the competition, have always performed well in the World Cup. They reached the semi-final in 2010 and qualified for the round of 16 in 2014 by defeating England.
Fans will be hoping that Uruguay can finally add a third World Cup title to their trophy cabinet by defeating all odds. They definitely have the talent and players to do that but can the ultimate World Cup dark horses hold their nerve at the big stage?
Columbia
Columbia will be led by the 2014 golden boot winner James Rodriguez. They surprised everyone in 2014 by reaching the quarter-final and certainly have the ability to repeat their 2014 performance.
Columbia will be the dark horses as they will look to upset everyone to win the Cup.
Croatia
Croatia has a midfield comprising the likes of Luka Modric, Ivan Rakitic and Mateo Kovacic. They certainly have the capability to beat anyone. Add Mario Mandzukic and Ivan Perisic to this team and they certainly become world class to cause the biggest upset.
Croatia lack the temperament and the experience to lift the Cup but with the talent they have no one should be surprised if they actually win it.