#underdogs

#underdogs

There's the unlikely upset, when deep underdogs overcome the odds. And then there's the Olympians with no chance in hell. The ones who are outclassed, outmatched, mostly just happy to be there. Sometimes those Olympians don't know or don't care that they have no hope, and put on the performance of their lives, and that it's still not nearly enough only makes it more moving.

With the knockout stage about to start at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), the big boys have had it all their own way so far. Algeria and Nigeria were the two nations to win all three of their games, Mohamed Salah's goals earned Egypt comfortable passage with seven points, while Achraf Hakimi eased himself back into action as hosts Morocco also went unbeaten.

Everyone loves an underdog, and for this issue we've told two of the year's most unlikely success stories: village club Mjallby becoming champions of Sweden and Cape Verde qualifying for their first-ever World Cup. You'd have got long odds on Morocco triumphing at the recent Under-20 World Cup too, and we take a closer look at their shock win as well.

Underdogs can win Sunday's FAI Cup final if they believe they can, says Rebels legend

On paper, it looks like a three-team race: You have the defending champ New York Liberty, who still have star power -- Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu and Jonquel Jones -- from last year's title run. Then there are A'ja Wilson and the Las Vegas Aces, who look better poised to rekindle their dynasty than at any point since they won it all for the second straight time in 2023.

Expectations for the Miami Heat in the 2025-26 NBA season are low, with projections suggesting they'll struggle to finish above .500 and compete in play-in games.

National Geographic's 'Underdogs' focuses on animal misfits, showcasing their unique traits and giving recognition to often overlooked species, narrated by Ryan Reynolds.

"It was also the first time a Brazilian club has beaten a European side by two goals since Vasco da Gama embarrassed Manchester United in 2000."