Ranking the Top 10 Moments of the 2026 World Cup

The 2026 World Cup, spanning 104 matches with 308 goals scored and more than 3.6 million tickets sold across 16 cities in three nations, was the largest ever held. Spain's triumph at MetLife Stadium marked the tournament's end, but the event offered so much more beyond the trophy.

Every four years, the World Cup brings people together despite differences, and having it hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico only highlighted the diversity of these countries. Below are some of the most memorable moments from this summer’s soccer spectacle.

10. Salah Celebrates With Fans in the Streets

Mohamed Salah led Egypt to its first-ever World Cup victory against New Zealand. Unlike many top players who avoid public mingling, Salah embraced the fans, riding on his teammates’ shoulders through the streets alongside supporters holding a boombox. No heavy security or barriers, just pure joy shared between players and fans—a reminder that the World Cup means more than just winning.

9. Canada’s First World Cup Win and Jesse Marsch’s Reaction

Before 2026, Canada had lost all six previous World Cup games they played in 1986 and 2022. Their first win came against Qatar, an important breakthrough for the co-host nation. Vancouver was awash in red and white as Jesse Marsch celebrated wildly, even after Ismaël Koné suffered a snapped leg during the match. That victory helped Canada secure a knockout stage spot for the first time, marking a major milestone for Canadian soccer.

8. Scottish Fans Bring Spirit to Boston and Miami

Scotland hadn’t appeared in the men’s World Cup for nearly 30 years, but their fans made sure their return was unforgettable. In Boston and Miami, the Tartan Army filled pubs and baseball stadiums, including Fenway Park, with chants and celebrations. Despite Scotland’s poor results and the departure of manager Steve Clarke, their vibrant support injected fun into the group stages.

7. U.S. Soccer Supporters Find Their Voice

U.S. soccer fans have long struggled with creating memorable chants. That changed dramatically in Seattle, where crowds brought energy inspired by the city’s passion for NFL, MLS, and NWSL teams. Lumen Field roared with “Take Me Home, Country Roads” becoming an anthem for victories, bringing a college football vibe that energized the U.S. men’s national team.

6. Ronaldo’s Historic Knockout Goal in Toronto

Cristiano Ronaldo scored his first World Cup knockout goal in Toronto, a city with one of the world's largest Portuguese communities. His penalty helped Portugal advance past Croatia and ended Luka Modrić’s World Cup journey. The match featured a late header by Gonçalo Ramos and a controversial offside call, making it a strong candidate for the tournament’s best match.

5. Argentina’s Never-Say-Die Spirit

Argentina produced some thrilling moments, particularly their late comeback against Egypt in the round of 16. Trailing in the 79th minute, Cristian Romero, Lionel Messi, and Enzo Fernández scored to eliminate Egypt. Messi finished the tournament with eight goals and four assists, often stepping up when it mattered most. The passionate Argentine fans created unforgettable chants celebrating the elusive fourth star.

4. Small Nations Shine: Cabo Verde and Curaçao

Cabo Verde and Curaçao, two of the smallest nations to qualify, proved critics of the expanded 48-team format wrong. Cabo Verde’s goalkeeper Vozinha made seven saves to hold Spain to a draw, while Curaçao scored early and held Germany to a 1–1 tie before earning a point against Ecuador. Cabo Verde nearly upset Argentina in the knockout rounds, showing they were no pushovers.

3. Norway’s Haaland and the Rowing Tradition

Erling Haaland dominated as the tournament’s best striker, scoring seven goals and pushing teams like Côte d’Ivoire, Brazil, and England to their limits. Beyond his play, Haaland’s charm and unique style, along with Norway’s lively fans, made a lasting impression. The image of Crown Prince Haakon leading a royal rowing ceremony added a special touch to Norway’s World Cup story.

2. England’s Defensive Masterclass at Azteca

Facing Mexico at the Estadio Azteca, England dealt with questions about altitude, heat, and pressure. They emerged victorious in a tense round of 16 clash. Dan Burn’s crucial block against Raúl Jiménez’s bicycle kick will be remembered for years. This defensive approach, while criticized later, proved effective that night and helped England progress.

1. Ferran Torres’s Defining Moment

In the final, Ferran Torres rose to the occasion, scoring a decisive goal and celebrating in the same corner where Andrés Iniesta did in 2010. Torres, once doubted for not performing in big moments, etched his name alongside legends. His career path may resemble Mario Götze’s 2014 final winner for Germany, another player who struck against Argentina in extra time.