Hello readers, I don’t know about you but I thoroughly enjoyed the World Cup. Okay, it helps that I won 150 euro with Argentina at my work draw. And the actual final was a bore fest.

Still, The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, was an unqualified triumph—the biggest, most attended, and one of the most thrilling editions in the tournament’s history. From June 11 to July 19, this expanded 48-team spectacle delivered drama, upsets, record crowds, and unforgettable moments, culminating in Spain’s deserved 1-0 extra-time victory over defending champions Argentina in the final at MetLife Stadium.

The numbers alone tell a story of massive success. Attendance shattered the 1994 record (set in the U.S.), surpassing 3.6 million early and ultimately drawing well over 4.6 million fans across 104 matches with a staggering 99.7% stadium occupancy rate and averages around 64,000–65,000 per game.

It was also a tournament where the world’s best players shone, especially Messi and Mbappe. We are truly blessed to be able to witness such great players.

Spain emerged as the undisputed stars, claiming their second World Cup title (first since 2010) with a masterclass in possession, defense, and clinical finishing. They extended an unbeaten run to 38 games, conceded just one goal all tournament, and dominated the final despite Argentina’s resilience. Rodri earned the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player, while young talents like Lamine Yamal shone brightly. Their extra-time winner—Ferran Torres volleying home after a brilliant Nico Williams header in the 106th minute—capped a controlled performance where Argentina managed zero shots on target.

Argentina fought valiantly to defend their crown, with Lionel Messi delivering moments of magic. But they let themselves down badly in the final with over defensive play, cheating and bad tackles. And I was supporting them.

The real heroes included underdogs like Cape Verde, the smallest nation ever to reach the knockouts. They drew with Spain, pushed Argentina to extra time in a 3-2 thriller, and captured hearts with their resilience and skill. Other surprises, strong runs from teams like Morocco, Norway.

Highlights abounded: dramatic comebacks (e.g., Argentina’s 3-2 turnaround), penalty shootouts, end-to-end thrillers, and emotional celebrations. The third-place playoff saw England edge France 6-4 in a goal-fest. Host nations punched above expectations at times, with passionate crowds creating a festival vibe. One thing I hope never to see again though is farcical water breaks when they are not needed.

The 2026 World Cup wasn’t just bigger; it felt more inclusive and joyful. It blended established powerhouses with fresh narratives, high-stakes football with global party energy, and legacy venues with modern flair. Spain’s triumph symbolized a new era of exciting, disciplined play, while underdog stories and record engagement showed football’s universal pull.