Note: This story first appeared in The Beautiful Game by CNN Sports, our daily newsletter on all things World Cup. While we’re saying goodbye for now, we will be back for the European domestic club season. See you then!
And just like that, the 2026 World Cup is over. After 308 goals were scored during 104 matches in 16 host cities across three countries, it was Spain that lifted the trophy.
And while the final wasn’t exactly one for the neutral, it was fitting that the best team in the tournament won in the end.
But while La Roja supporters around the world celebrated the country’s second title (Spanish editor’s note: my headache and I can confirm this occurred in North London), everyone else was left reflecting on an emotional, record-breaking, superstar-studded edition of the tournament.
For years, there were so many concerns around this World Cup. Would it be safe? Would the locals care? Would it be a waste of money? And while those critics were proved right at times, the 2026 edition can still be considered a resounding success.
And that’s not down to the politicians or governing bodies; it’s down to the millions of fans who flocked to North America to party with one another. It’s down to the superstars who turned up and performed at the highest level and to the tournament minnows who punched well above their weight.
So, in our last World Cup edition of this newsletter, it only feels right to remember some of the most magical moments.
The Main Thing: And the award goes to…
Before Spain got its hands on the main trophy, there were also several individual awards handed out at the end of yesterday’s final.
France’s Kylian Mbappé was named the winner of the Golden Boot after scoring 10 goals – becoming the World Cup’s all-time top scorer in the process. Spanish defender Pau Cubarsí was named the best young player, Unai Simón was awarded the Golden Glove for best goalkeeper and midfielder Rodri won the Golden Ball for player of the tournament.
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