Was the World Cup 2026 a success?, By Reuben Abati

Spain lifted the 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy on Sunday, July 19, after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over defending champions Argentina. The final capped a 39-day tournament that saw 48 teams compete across 16 host cities in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

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The straight-forward, honest and correct answer to the question raised above is: Yes.

This was the most expansive and expensive World Cup in history, with ticket prices reaching upwards of $10,000 for the final match. Spain's triumph was widely considered well-deserved. The team dominated possession and play, registering 20 shots with 12 on target, ultimately securing their second World Cup title with Ferran Torres' winning goal in the 106th minute.

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Spain’s victory was very well deserved.

The victory is historic for Spain. They are now the first nation to simultaneously hold the men's and women's FIFA World Cup titles. Furthermore, Spain holds the men's World Championship, the European Championship, and the Olympic Championship titles concurrently. Individual accolades also went to Spain, with Rodri winning the Golden Ball, Pan Cubarsi named best young player, and Unai Simon receiving the Golden Gloves for best goalkeeper. The Spanish team's defense was formidable, conceding only one goal throughout the tournament while scoring 14.

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Argentina actually failed to get one shot on target.

Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, had hoped for a back-to-back win, but their efforts were thwarted. The team failed to get a single shot on target, heavily relying on goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. Messi, playing in what was likely his last World Cup at age 39, was visibly emotional after the match. Despite the final's anticipation, it was not the most exciting match of the tournament, with the clash between the Netherlands and Japan noted as a more thrilling encounter.

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Spain dominated the game from start to finish, with 20 shots and 12 on target, until Ferrand Torres scored the winning goal in the 106th minute.