Dhaka, Jul 21 (V7N)- The curtain has fallen on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, bringing an end to one of the biggest tournaments in football history. Featuring 48 nations, 1,248 players, 104 matches, and 16 stadiums across Canada, Mexico and the United States, the month-long spectacle concluded with Spain lifting the coveted trophy at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

The tournament began on June 11 with a colorful opening ceremony at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City before more than 83,000 spectators. Hosts Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in the opening match, with Julián Quiñones scoring the tournament's first goal and Raúl Jiménez adding the second.

Mexico's Roberto Alvarado registered the tournament's first assist, while Themba Zwane of South Africa was named the first Player of the Match. Venezuelan referee Jesús Valenzuela officiated the opening game. South Africa's Sphephelo Sithole received the tournament's first yellow card, while Paraguay's Miguel Almirón was shown the first red card. Norway striker Erling Haaland recorded the first hat-trick of the competition.

A total of 308 goals were scored in 104 matches, averaging 2.96 goals per game.

Spain Triumph in the Final

The knockout stage began with the newly introduced Round of 32, from which France, Morocco, Spain, Belgium, Norway, England, Argentina and Switzerland progressed to the quarter-finals.

In the semi-finals, Spain defeated France 2-0, while Argentina edged England 2-1 to book a place in the final.

The championship match between Spain and Argentina remained goalless after 90 minutes. Argentina were reduced to 10 men when Enzo Fernández received his second yellow card during extra time. Moments later, substitute Ferran Torres struck a stunning long-range winner in the 106th minute, sealing a 1-0 victory for Spain.

The triumph earned La Roja their second FIFA World Cup title, their first since winning the 2010 tournament in South Africa.

Individual Awards

France captain Kylian Mbappé claimed the Golden Boot after finishing as the tournament's leading scorer with 10 goals. He also set a new all-time World Cup scoring record with 22 career goals, surpassing Lionel Messi's previous mark of 21.

Lionel Messi finished second in the scoring charts with eight goals, while Jude Bellingham of England and Erling Haaland of Norway shared third place with seven goals each.

Spain dominated the individual honors:

  • Golden Ball (Best Player): Rodri (Spain)

  • Golden Glove (Best Goalkeeper): Unai Simón (Spain)

  • Best Young Player: Pau Cubarsí (Spain)

  • FIFA Fair Play Award: Netherlands

Final Standings

  • Champions: Spain

  • Runners-up: Argentina

  • Third Place: England

  • Fourth Place: France

England secured the bronze medal after defeating France 6-4 in the third-place playoff in Miami.

Spectacular Opening and Closing Ceremonies

The World Cup featured star-studded entertainment throughout the tournament.

The opening ceremony at Estadio Azteca showcased performances by Shakira, Burna Boy, J Balvin, Tyla, Danny Ocean, and Belinda. Additional opening celebrations across the United States and Canada featured artists including Katy Perry, BLACKPINK's Lisa, Adele, Anitta, and Michael Bublé.

The closing ceremony before the final featured performances from Robbie Williams, Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, and internet personality IShowSpeed. Hollywood star Tom Cruise made a special appearance, while Jennifer Hudson performed the United States national anthem. The halftime show featured global superstars Shakira, BTS, Madonna, and Justin Bieber.

A Tournament to Remember

As the final whistle echoed around MetLife Stadium, the 2026 FIFA World Cup came to a memorable conclusion. Over 104 matches, football produced unforgettable goals, dramatic comebacks, emerging stars and emotional farewells.

Beyond trophies and statistics, the tournament celebrated the global passion for football, leaving behind moments that will inspire fans and future generations for years to come.

END/SMA/AJ