Goals, technology and hydration breaks: How the biggest World Cup in history will be remembered

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, the largest in the tournament's history, is set to conclude with a final match between Spain and defending champion Argentina. This edition featured a record 104 games played over nearly six weeks across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, delivering thrilling action, unexpected upsets, and dramatic comebacks.

Concerns about the expanded 48-team format potentially leading to lopsided matches were challenged by the performances of nations like Cape Verde, Congo, and Curaçao. Cape Verde notably held Spain to a draw and gave Argentina a close contest in extra time, while Congo advanced past the group stage. Despite these historic runs, the tournament's final four ultimately consisted of traditional powerhouses: Argentina, Spain, France, and England.

Star players lived up to expectations, with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé leading the charge for the Golden Boot. Mbappé entered the final with 10 goals, setting a new career World Cup record with 22 goals. Messi followed closely with eight goals in this tournament. However, the tournament also saw its share of controversy, including political tensions surrounding Iran's participation and criticism of innovations such as VAR and mandatory hydration breaks, which were met with mixed reactions from fans and coaches.

Cristiano Ronaldo's final World Cup appearance did not result in a win for Portugal, while Spain's young talent Lamine Yamal overcame an injury to make an impact. The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system was at the center of several contentious decisions, disallowing crucial goals for teams like Germany, Croatia, and Egypt, leading to strong reactions from coaches.

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France forward Kylian Mbappé (10) in action during a semifinal match between France and Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Jul 14, 2026.