Best goal, best player, best fans - BBC reporters' World Cup awards
BBC sportswriters reflect on the highlights of the 2026 World Cup, including standout goals and saves. The article features expert analysis of key performances from players like Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland.
Why it matters
Provides a retrospective on a major global sporting event, documenting the athletic achievements that defined the tournament.
Image source, Getty Images Published 1 hour ago After delivering unforgettable drama and surprises across 104 matches over almost six weeks, the World Cup is over.
History has been scripted, records broken and heroes old and new made their mark at football's most coveted tournament.
Choose from our chief football writer Phil McNulty's selections for best goal and best save - then read our reporters' reflections from the US, Canada and Mexico.
Figure caption, Six of the best World Cup goals
Phil McNulty, BBC Sport chief football writer
The deadlock was broken by Lionel Messi for Argentina against Cape Verde with a triumph of technique as he showed exquisite touch to take a difficult pass on the run before, with little room to work with, he guided it into the top corner with his second touch.
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