Goals, technology and hydration breaks: How the biggest World Cup in history will be remembered

By — James Robson, Associated Press James Robson, Associated Press Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/goals-technology-and-hydration-breaks-how-the-biggest-world-cup-in-history-will-be-remembered Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Goals, technology and hydration breaks: How the biggest World Cup in history will be remembered World Jul 19, 2026 11:42 AM EDT ATLANTA (AP) — The World Cup final between Spain and defending champion Argentina marks the end of the biggest tournament in the competition's history. At the final whistle in New Jersey on Sunday, a record 104 games will have been played across almost six weeks and three countries. The supersized tournament delivered thrilling action on the field, with upsets, dramatic comebacks, spectacular goals and standout performances by the biggest stars of the game. READ MORE: Thunderstorms will clear wildfire smoke from Northeast ahead of World Cup final, meteorologists say It also generated controversy, from political tensions surrounding Iran's participation to criticism against innovations such as hydration breaks, which were unpopular among many fans. Here are some key takeaways from the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada. More teams, more drama A newly expanded 48-team format raised concerns about lopsided matches and a lack of jeopardy in the group stage. Tell that to Cape Verde, Congo and even Curaçao, which all made history and won new fans. Cape Verde held Spain to a draw in its opening game, advanced to the round of 32 and gave Argentina a scare before eventually losing 3-2 in extra time in a World Cup classic. Cape Verde's goalkeeper Vozinha became a breakout star at the age of 40, gaining millions of followers on social media. READ MORE: World Cup beer sales are hopping. Brewers hope the stout demand outlasts the tournament Congo also advanced beyond the group stage and pushed England before eventually losing, while Curaçao was still in with a chance of making the knockouts going into its final group match. FIFA opened its door to more teams and they proved they could compete on soccer's biggest stage. Nonetheless, it was top-ranked nations Argentina, Spain, France and England — all former champions — that made it to the final four. The big stars delivered The race for the golden boot became a who's who of the world's top players with Lionel Messi , Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham firing on all cylinders. Mbappé led the way ahead of Sunday's final with 10 goals in the tournament and a record 22 career World Cup goals. Messi had eight at this World Cup and 21 in total with one game to go. France forward Kylian Mbappé (10) in action during a semifinal match between France and Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Jul 14, 2026. Photo by Jerome Miron-Imagn Images via Reuters Cristiano Ronaldo couldn't lead Portugal to success