The 2026 World Cup is the biggest comeback story in the tournament’s history, and not just because it has grown to 48 teams.
Here are the countries and players whose comebacks are defining the tournament.
Iraq’s 40-year wait and the returning nations
Iraq ended a 40-year absence from the World Cup, their first appearance since 1986.
The Lions of Mesopotamia booked the final spot through the inter-confederation play-off, beating Bolivia 2-1 with goals from Ali Al-Hamadi and Aymen Hussein.
Iraq landed in Group I alongside Norway, Senegal and France, with several early fixtures staged near Boston.
Iraq Match at the 2026 World Cup: Full Schedule, Dates and Kick-off Times
Several other nations have returned after long spells away. The standout droughts ended this year:
| Nation | Comeback story |
|---|---|
| Norway | Back for the first time since 1998, a 28-year wait ended after eight wins from eight qualifiers. |
| Scotland | Also back after 28 years, having last appeared in 1998. |
| Haiti | Returning for the first time since 1974, a 52-year gap. |
| DR Congo | First appearance since 1974, when they played as Zaire, sealed via the play-off win over Jamaica. |
| South Africa | A 16-year absence ended, their first finals since hosting in 2010. |
Sweden also returned after missing the 2022 edition, and Colombia are back after sitting out Qatar. Paraguay ended a longer wait, returning for the first time since 2010.
Meanwhile, Cape Verde, Curaçao, Jordan and Uzbekistan are all playing at a World Cup for the first time in their history.
New Teams in FIFA World Cup 2026: Debutant Nations and Players to Watch
The players who reversed their retirements
The biggest individual comeback belongs to Manuel Neuer, who reversed his international retirement to start for Germany at 40.
Neuer had not played for Germany since Euro 2024, ending his career on 124 caps. Coach Julian Nagelsmann recalled him after an injury to Marc-André ter Stegen, and confirmed the Bayern captain as first choice.
He is not the only surprise recall. Austria midfielder Dejan Ljubicic earned a shock call-up after almost three years out of the squad, drafted in to replace the injured Christoph Baumgartner.
Not every comeback bid succeeded. Japan captain Wataru Endo was ruled out days before the opener and retired from international football after a foot injury.l.
How to follow the comeback teams
The comeback nations are spread across all three host countries, so following one team can mean a multi-city trip.
Group games for the returning and debutant sides are staged everywhere from Mexico City and Boston to Los Angeles, New York, Dallas, Miami, Toronto and Vancouver.
A few practical tips for fans planning to travel:
- Book flights early: compare flights to Mexico City and other host cities, as fares rise sharply around match dates.
- Lock in accommodation: host-city rooms sell out fast. Check hotels in New York and your team’s venue cities well ahead.
- Check entry rules: confirm visa or ESTA/eTA requirements for the US, Canada and Mexico before booking.
- Track schedules: use the Wego flight tracker to monitor connections between host cities on match days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which countries are making their World Cup debut in 2026?
Cape Verde, Curaçao, Jordan and Uzbekistan are all appearing at a World Cup for the first time. The expansion to 48 teams helped, but each side qualified on merit.
How long had Iraq been away from the World Cup?
Iraq returned after a 40-year absence, having last played at the 1986 World Cup. They sealed the last available spot through the inter-confederation play-off.
Why is Manuel Neuer back for Germany?
Neuer reversed his international retirement at 40 after an injury to Marc-André ter Stegen. Coach Julian Nagelsmann recalled him and named him first-choice goalkeeper.
Is 2026 the last World Cup for Messi and Ronaldo?
Both are widely expected to retire from international football after this tournament. Ronaldo is 41 and playing what is set to be his sixth and final World Cup.
Sources
- FIFA — The Four Nations Primed to Make World Cup Debuts
- FIFA — Play-off Tournament Review: Congo DR and Iraq Qualify
- FIFA — Qualified Teams for the FIFA World Cup 2026
- Al Jazeera — Iraq Defeat Bolivia 2-1 to Qualify for World Cup 2026
- Al Jazeera — DR Congo Beat Jamaica to Reach World Cup
- UEFA — How Norway Built Their Way Back to the World Cup
- FIFA — Scotland Qualify for the FIFA World Cup 26
- FIFA — South Africa Qualify for the FIFA World Cup 26
- FIFA — Uruguay, Colombia and Paraguay Qualify
- Bundesliga — Manuel Neuer Makes Germany Return for World Cup 2026 Squad
- ESPN — Japan Captain Wataru Endo Out of World Cup, Announces Retirement
- ESPN — Meet the 2026 World Cup Debutants
Disclaimer: Wego strives to ensure all information presented in this article is accurate and up to date at the time of publication. Travel policies, prices, visa requirements, and conditions can change rapidly. We strongly recommend verifying critical details with official sources before making travel decisions. Wego does not accept liability for any inaccuracies, oversights, or changes that may occur after publication.
