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Messi and Cristiano, the first to play in six World Cups
The 2026 World Cup had a generational milestone: Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo became the first players in history to appear at six World Cups. Two unrepeatable careers that, in all likelihood, said goodbye to the tournament.
Egypt, a World Cup to remember: they beat Australia and pushed Argentina hard
Egypt left their mark on the 2026 World Cup. They beat Australia on penalties in the round of 32 and in the last 16 only bowed to Argentina after a thriller they lost 3-2. A brave campaign that enhances African football.
Germany, out in the round of 32: the World Cup's big disappointment
One of the big favourites left early. Germany fell in the round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup to Paraguay, on penalties, in one of the loudest disappointments of a tournament that never clicked for them.
Oyarzabal, the champion's finisher: five goals and the semi-final penalty
Mikel Oyarzabal was one of Spain's key names on the way to the title. With five goals in the tournament and the penalty that opened the semi-final against France, the Real Sociedad forward confirmed his status as a reliable finisher in decisive moments.
Mbappé, Golden Boot and chasing Messi in the goal-scoring history
Kylian Mbappé won the 2026 World Cup Golden Boot with ten goals and cemented a record-breaking path: with twenty goals in just three World Cups, the Frenchman is already in Lionel Messi's rear-view mirror as the all-time top scorer.
Bellingham, England's engine: seven goals on the road to the semis
Jude Bellingham was England's beacon at the 2026 World Cup. With seven goals, the tournament's third-top scorer, he dragged the team to the semi-finals with braces and decisive moments, including extra time in the quarter-final against Norway.