Arabic version: كأس العالم 2026 يقدم الإثارة مع أهداف قياسية ودراما

The 2026 World Cup has been marked by thrilling matches, dramatic comebacks, and unexpected results, raising the question of whether it might be the best tournament to date. The quarter-finals are set to begin on Thursday, with eight games remaining in this historic event, which features 48 nations for the first time and is hosted across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. According to BBC News, the excitement on the pitch has been palpable.

So far, the tournament has witnessed an impressive average of 2.92 goals per game, the highest since the 1970 World Cup in Mexico. With 280 goals scored in 96 of 104 matches, fans have been treated to a showcase of attacking football. Notably, only 5% of goals have come from penalties, a record low, while 74.6% of goals have been scored from open play.

The knockout stage has further intensified the action, with eight matches featuring late winning goals scored after the 85th minute, including Argentina’s extra-time victory over Cape Verde. This tournament has already set a record for the most 90th-minute winning goals, emphasizing the thrilling nature of the matches.

Attendance has exceeded expectations, with FIFA reporting that 99.7% of available seats have been filled, totaling over 6.2 million attendees so far. The average attendance stands at just over 65,000 per match, trailing only the 1994 World Cup in the United States.

Despite the excitement, the tournament has not been without controversy. The high costs associated with attending matches, including ticket prices and accommodation, have strained many fans’ budgets. Additionally, concerns over the quality of refereeing and the impact of an expanded tournament format have emerged. The spirit of fair play has also been questioned following a politically charged incident involving American striker Folarin Balogun, who received a controversial suspension.

As the tournament progresses, FIFA faces both challenges and triumphs. With the knockout stages approaching, the potential for more thrilling matches remains high, as fans eagerly anticipate what the final days of the World Cup will bring.