Ankara: Spain's 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina concluded the first 48-team World Cup, which spanned 39 days across the US, Mexico, and Canada. According to Anadolu Agency, the tournament set records in attendance, saw a change in football's generational leadership, highlighted a goalkeeper's rise to global fame, and prompted renewed scrutiny of FIFA's leadership. Amid these events, ten individuals stood out as defining figures of this year's tournament.
Lionel Messi arrived in North America at 39, likely for his final World Cup, nearly achieving back-to-back titles-a feat not accomplished in 64 years. He ended with eight goals and four assists, his best performance at a single World Cup, earning the Silver Ball behind Rodri. Despite going scoreless in the final, Messi's journey captured the emotional narrative of the tournament, symbolically passing the torch to 19-year-old Lamine Yamal.
Rodri claimed the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player, despite not scoring. His dominance was rooted in control, leading in successful passes, line-breaking passes, and touches, anchoring a Spain defense that conceded only once in eight matches. His performance was particularly notable, given his comeback from a serious knee injury.
Kylian Mbappe retained the Golden Boot with 10 goals, becoming the World Cup's all-time leading scorer with 22 career goals. His campaign included significant scoring performances and a Bronze Ball award, continuing his record-breaking journey at 27.
Lamine Yamal became one of the youngest World Cup winners at 19, achieving a European Championship-World Cup double early in his career. Although his personal stats were modest, his presence symbolized the new era of football talent.
Erling Haaland led Norway to its first World Cup quarterfinal, scoring seven goals, including a notable brace against Brazil. His efficient scoring and family connection to the World Cup added layers to his impactful campaign.
Vozinha, the 40-year-old Cape Verde goalkeeper, became an emblem of the expanded World Cup spirit, leading his team to the knockout stage and gaining global admiration for his performances and unique career journey.
Jude Bellingham set a record for England, scoring seven goals as a midfielder, leading his team to the semifinals and securing a third-place finish. His duels with Messi and Haaland highlighted his critical role in the tournament.
Michael Olise broke Pele's assist record, finishing with seven assists, cementing his status as a creative force in France's lineup and sparking transfer speculations despite not scoring.
Luis de la Fuente led Spain to its second World Cup title, extending the team's unbeaten run to 38 matches. His experience with Spain's youth and Olympic teams informed his strategic decisions, culminating in a European Championship-World Cup double.
Gianni Infantino presided over the expanded World Cup, achieving commercial success with record attendance and ticket requests. However, his tenure faced scrutiny over ticket pricing, political neutrality, and disciplinary decisions, raising questions about FIFA's independence.