Even after the 2026 World Cup concluded, related topics and discussions continue. Recently, The Athletic invited 14 writers from different regions to review the tournament, sharing their observations and evaluations of the World Cup from multiple perspectives, including team performance, player contributions, the hosting experience, and future trends.
Bloor : Mexico 2-3 England. A dramatic match. The unknowns of playing at high altitude, the delayed kickoff due to torrential rain, and the inherent ups and downs of the game itself. This match had everything a World Cup clash should have, played in a top-class stadium, making for unforgettable hours.
Bushnell : Algeria 3-3 Austria. Before the match, many speculated that the two teams would agree to a draw and advance to the knockout stage. However, the game was full of excitement. In the 75th minute, the score was 2-2, and everyone thought a draw was inevitable. In the 93rd minute, Algeria, after a period of slowing down the game with continuous passing, suddenly launched a counter-attack and scored! The Iranian team, watching the live broadcast from their Tijuana base, needed a decisive result to keep their hopes of advancing, and thus erupted in wild celebrations. However, in the 6th minute of stoppage time, Austria's Kalejic seized a last-minute opportunity to equalize with a header. Both teams ultimately advanced, while Iran was eliminated.
A goal that triggered massive chaos: 100 passes, Mahrez's goal, Austria's scare, Iran's elimination—who says a draw isn't exciting enough? A recap of the chain reaction triggered by the stoppage-time goal and the thrilling finale.
Horncastle : Egypt 2-3 Argentina. Messi got off to a bad start that night, missing a penalty – his second missed penalty of the tournament. His shot even flew wildly towards the corner flag. Egyptian goalkeeper Schubert made a brilliant save, denying McAllister's close-range shot. The defending champions were on the verge of elimination. This match was completely different from the previous Cape Verde vs. Argentina game, where Argentina took the lead three times; in this match, with only 11 minutes remaining, Argentina was still trailing 0-2. Never before in World Cup history had a team reversed such a huge score difference so late in the game. When Argentina completed their miraculous comeback, Scaloni and Messi were moved to tears, an unforgettable moment.
Kay : In the Egypt vs. Argentina match, James and I were in the media section, and we witnessed the entire second half in awe. Egypt played brilliantly and deserved a better result, but Messi led Argentina to show an indomitable spirit.
Cloughton : Germany 1-2 Ecuador. Looking back now, it's been a long time, and Germany was widely favored at the time. While Ecuador had excellent players in the first two rounds, their overall performance was mediocre, but they ultimately secured their greatest victory in club history with the near-home support of their New Jersey fans. This match also boasted one of the best atmospheres of the entire tournament at Metropolitan Life Stadium.
Green : Argentina 3-2 Cape Verde. The two teams were vastly different on paper in the Round of 32, but the match was the most thrilling. Bubista's Cape Verde showed no fear against the world champions, continuously pressuring the Argentine half. Relying on a solid defense and the outstanding performance of their new national hero, Wozimha, they were just one step away from creating a miracle.
Anka : Morocco 4-2 Haiti. This was a surprising and delightful match in the World Cup. While it didn't garner the most attention, the game was incredibly entertaining. Isidore's goal, which gave Haiti a 2-1 lead, was spectacular. The camera even captured a Moroccan fan shaking his head in disbelief and making a "too good!" gesture after seeing the goal.
Wes : Portugal 2-1 Croatia. The direct confrontation between legendary stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric was one of the most anticipated matches of the knockout stage, and the game lived up to expectations.
Cárdenas : I experienced the fervor of two Mexico matches live in Mexico City, but I watched the Mexico vs. England game on TV. Even through the screen, the match far exceeded expectations and produced some of the most widely circulated moments of this World Cup. Thanks to Aguirre and Gordon.
Tenorio : Argentina 3-2 Cape Verde. This match was full of highlights: Argentina staged a remarkable comeback in extra time, while Cape Verde's tenacious performance was equally moving and one of the most exciting storylines of the tournament.
James : Croatia vs. Portugal in the Round of 32 was equally exciting, but England vs. Mexico is still my top pick. It was one of the most intense and competitive World Cup matches I've ever seen. Multiple goals, penalties, red cards, a frenzied atmosphere, and the manager's witty rebukes of opposing players—it had it all.
Matthews : I would choose several matches to tie for. The third-place match between England and France is very entertaining; Cape Verde's knockout stage matches against Uruguay, Spain, and Argentina are equally exciting. In addition, Japan 2-2 Netherlands and Iran 2-2 New Zealand are also noteworthy upsets.
Miller : If judged by "unbelievable, thrilling" criteria, Argentina 3-2 Egypt is the top choice; if considering emotional ups and downs, Argentina 3-2 Cape Verde is the best. England 3-2 Mexico and Algeria 3-3 Austria are also impressive. While the opening ceremony's Mexico 2-0 South Africa wasn't particularly exciting on the field, the enthusiastic atmosphere was palpable even through the screen, foreshadowing a fun-filled World Cup.
Williamson : Mexico 2-3 England. I rarely see England play football like this, and being able to stay up all night to watch and witness this match was an exceptionally wonderful experience.
