World Cup 2026 Buzz: Underdog Picks and What It Means for Spain Travellers

Football Fever Meets Spanish Summer

With the FIFA World Cup 2026 now underway across North America, football conversations are dominating cafés and beach bars from Barcelona to Málaga. According to Euro Weekly News, readers of the publication have been weighing in on which underdog nations might just pull off a surprise victory this tournament, moving beyond the usual heavyweight favourites that typically dominate predictions.

While traditional powerhouses like Brazil, France, Argentina and hosts Spain remain the popular picks, the Euro Weekly News reader poll suggests fans are keeping an eye on lesser-tipped squads capable of causing upsets in the expanded 48-team format being used for the first time in 2026.

What This Means for Travellers in Spain

For visitors currently exploring Spain, the World Cup atmosphere is impossible to miss. Expect the following throughout the tournament:

• Packed sports bars and plazas — Cities across the country are setting up public viewing screens, particularly for La Roja's matches. Arrive early to secure a spot.
• Extended service hours — Many restaurants and tapas bars in tourist areas including Madrid, Seville and Valencia are keeping kitchens open later to accommodate match schedules staggered across American time zones.
• Festive street celebrations — Wins by Spain traditionally trigger spontaneous gatherings around fountains and city squares. Cibeles in Madrid remains the iconic celebration spot.
• Increased demand on transport — Late-night metro and taxi services may be busier than usual on match nights.

Practical Tips

Travellers planning to catch games in public venues should be aware that pickpocketing tends to spike during crowded viewings, so keep valuables secured. Booking accommodation in advance is also wise, as some coastal towns are reporting higher occupancy than typical summer levels thanks to football tourism.

As reported by Euro Weekly News, the diversity of opinion among expat readers reflects just how open this year's tournament feels. Whether Spain lifts the trophy or a surprise nation makes history, the atmosphere across the Iberian Peninsula throughout the summer of 2026 promises to be electric for anyone lucky enough to be visiting.