World Cup 2026 best and worst: Lionel Messi and Cape Verde shine, Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo flop

The 2026 FIFA World Cup concluded after 104 matches spanning five weeks, marking the first-ever 48-team global finals. Spain emerged victorious, cementing their status as the premier team in world football. The reigning champions defeated France and Argentina in the semifinal and final, respectively, showcasing their dominance throughout the tournament. Lionel Messi, despite turning 39 during the competition, continued to display his exceptional talent. As the standout performer, he led Argentina through challenging moments, particularly in the dramatic last-16 match against Egypt and the semifinal clash with England, where he contributed crucial assists. His performance underscored his enduring influence on the pitch, even as many anticipated a farewell tour. Pau Cubarsi, a 19-year-old Spanish center-back, earned recognition as the best young player. Emerging from the La Masia academy, Cubarsi demonstrated composure and strength in defense, forming a formidable partnership with Aymeric Laporte. Their combined efforts helped Spain concede just one goal across eight matches, highlighting their defensive solidity. Cape Verde's Sidny Cabral etched his name into World Cup lore with a stunning goal against Argentina. In extra time, when Argentina appeared poised to secure a narrow victory, Cabral struck a long-range shot from an unlikely angle, sending the stadium into chaos and ensuring a memorable draw. Orjan Nyland of Norway made a defining contribution with a series of extraordinary saves. He denied Bruno Guimaraes a penalty, then stopped a close-range effort, and even intervened to prevent a goal by his own defender, Kristoffer Ajer. His quick reflexes and positioning saved Norway from a potential disaster. The match between Mexico and England stood out as the best game of the tournament. Played at the iconic Azteca Stadium, the contest featured intense moments, passionate support from the crowd, and frequent shifts in momentum. England’s 3-2 victory will be remembered for its thrilling nature and historical significance. Portugal, however, became the biggest disappointment of the tournament. Despite being among the favorites, they suffered a 1-0 loss to Spain in the last 16. Cristiano Ronaldo, although scoring three goals, against Croatia and Uzbekistan, struggled to impact games against stronger opponents. At 41, his reduced mobility affected his ability to contribute effectively, despite his consistent finishing skills. As the dust settles on the 2026 World Cup, the legacy of the tournament is defined by moments of brilliance and unexpected performances. Spain’s triumph, Messi’s final chapter, and Cape Verde’s heroic stand will be recalled for years to come, while Portugal’s underwhelming exit serves as a cautionary tale for future campaigns.