From historic underdog runs to superstar performances, the 2026 FIFA World Cup has produced so many unforgettable moments. As Spain and Argentina prepare to battle for football’s biggest prize, we take a look back at the stories that defined the tournament.
Some truly memorable moments
This summer has arguably been one of the most memorable World Cups. From inspiring underdog stories to viral celebrations and upsets, the World Cup has delivered unforgettable moments on and off the pitch.
Cape Verde captured the hearts of fans all over the world with their historic run to the Round of 32, highlighted by the heroic performances and virality of 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha. Cape Verde tied their opening match versus Spain and dragged Argentina to an extra-time thriller. Norway was also one of the biggest stories of the tournament, led by global superstar Erling Haaland. The fans’ viral rowing celebration turned them into fan favorites across social media.
The stars of the World Cup
No World Cup is complete without its superstars, and this tournament has delivered to another level. Lionel Messi is still putting up the same numbers that he did in his prime, and to see him still competing with the likes of Mbappe, Haaland, and Kane shows how timeless he is.
Lionel Messi has registered 8 goals and 4 assists, making him the frontrunner to receive yet another Golden Ball award. His late-game magic has Argentina in yet another final, and he is now in contention to win another World Cup trophy.
Kylian Mbappe has been equally electrifying. The French superstar has made long-range striking his specialty, with 3 out of his 8 goals coming from outside the box. Every time Mbappe receives the ball, he feels capable of producing a moment of magic.
Erling Braut Haaland guided Norway to the quarter-finals, which included his stunning brace to knock Brazil out of the World Cup in the Round of 16. Already one of football’s most prolific goalscorers, Haaland continues to build a World Cup legacy that could see him climb the tournament’s all-time scoring charts in the years to come.
Underwhelming performances
Not all superstars met their high expectations, with some prominent names underperforming at this summer’s World Cup.
Coming off the back of leading Barcelona to yet another league title, Pedri entered the tournament with the expectation that his presence in Spain’s midfield would be inevitable. He struggled to make an impact, and he lost his place in the starting 11 for Spain’s quarterfinal and semifinal matches.
Vitinha entered this summer’s World Cup on the back of winning the UEFA Champions League, earning Man of the Match in the final, and finishing third in last year’s Ballon d’Or voting. Despite his outstanding club form, he never replicated that influence for Portugal as they crashed out in the Round of 16 vs. Spain. Things did not quite gel for Portugal in the middle of the park, which was extremely disappointing considering the talent they have.
Expectations were also sky-high for Bruno Fernandes, who produced one of the best Premier League seasons in recent memory after breaking Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne’s single-season assists record. Their midfield was disjointed, taken apart, and never quite managed to connect with the attack, which led to a poor overall performance in this tournament. Bruno’s creativity was limited, which prevented him from supplying the attack at the same level we saw throughout the club season.
The historic final is ahead of us
The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final is complete, and only two teams remain: Spain and Argentina. These two elite teams will battle for football’s greatest honor in a match set to capture all the headlines.
