After 104 matches across the United States, Canada and Mexico, the 2026 World Cup delivered drama and unforgettable moments. Phil McNulty named Messi’s late‑hour strike against Cape Verde the best goal, a pinpoint finish that left fans stunned, alongside Sidny Cabral’s curling equaliser and Kerim Alajbegovic’s solo triumph for Bosnia‑Herzegovina.

The best save tally highlighted Johny Placide’s double‑save for Haiti, Jordan Pickford’s diving stop in England’s win over Mexico and Orjan Nyland’s acrobatic block against Brazil, underscoring the tournament’s defensive highs.

Officially, Spain’s Rodri claimed the Golden Ball as best player, with Messi winning the Silver Ball and Mbappe the Bronze. These accolades highlighted the blend of experience and emerging talent that defined the tournament.

Breakout talent came in the form of Spain’s 19‑year‑old centre‑back Pau Cubarsi, who played every minute in a defence that conceded only one goal. His disciplined positioning and composure in the final two minutes of each match drew praise from pundits worldwide, earning him FIFA’s best young player award.