The closing of the World Cup has prompted reflection among Daily Mail Sport experts, who have shared their most memorable moments and significant lowlights from the tournament.
While Spain emerged victorious in a dramatic final in New Jersey, the competition was marked by a wide array of experiences across its 16 host cities. The tournament featured notable performances from teams like Cape Verde and Norway, while established footballing nations such as Germany, the Netherlands, and Brazil faced disappointing campaigns. England secured a third-place finish after a high-scoring match against France.
Tournament Highlights
Several experts cited the passionate support and unique moments from fans as standout experiences. Ian Herbert recalled Erling Haaland leading Norway's fans in a drum performance after their victory over Brazil, describing Norway as the tournament's story and their fans as peerless. Mike Keegan noted the heartwarming reception from locals in Mexico City after England's victory, contradicting his initial concerns about potential unrest and hoping for a future friendly match.
Riath Al-Samarrai highlighted Cape Verde's Sidny Cabral scoring a crucial equalizer against Argentina as a moment of sporting legend. Jack Gaughan and Craig Hope both mentioned the electric atmosphere at the Azteca Stadium after the final whistle, describing it as a special event and pure theater. Ian Ladyman was moved by the dignified grace of Japan's team after their knockout stage defeat to Brazil, contrasting it with the reactions of other nations.
Oliver Holt described the fervor of the Mexican crowd and the significance of experiencing the Azteca Stadium for the first time. Dan Matthews found an hour-long interview with Mauricio Pochettino at the USA's team hotel a fascinating glimpse into a manager's perspective during a major tournament.
Low Points and Controversies
The tournament also had its share of negative experiences. Ian Herbert recounted a stressful incident involving low oil levels in his hire car in a remote part of West Texas. Mike Keegan described deplorable aggressive behavior from some Argentinian fans towards England supporters after a semi-final match.
Riath Al-Samarrai witnessed a shooting in Boston following Paraguay's elimination of Germany, calling it a scarring and unfortunately common episode in the US. Jack Gaughan pointed to a player goading opponents as a moment that signaled a shift in momentum.
Concerns about tournament integrity arose from the Folarin Balogun red card incident. Ian Ladyman and Dan Matthews both criticized Donald Trump's intervention, which led to the suspension of Balogun's ban. Oliver Holt also questioned the credibility and integrity of the tournament following this unprecedented move.
Notable Goals, Food, and Venues
Among the best goals, Ousmane Dembele's strike for France against Morocco, Jude Bellingham's early goal against Mexico, and Julian Alvarez's goal against Switzerland were mentioned. Sidny Cabral's equalizer for Cape Verde against Argentina also received praise.
Culinary experiences varied, with experts enjoying local specialties like barbecued ribs in Kansas City and chicken shawarma in Miami. However, some found stadium food to be overpriced and uninspiring, with mentions of stale sandwiches and mediocre hot dogs. Grits were singled out as a particularly unappealing dish.
Stadiums like the Mercedes-Benz in Atlanta and the historic Azteca in Mexico City were praised for their architecture and atmosphere. Conversely, MetLife Stadium in New Jersey was frequently criticized for its lack of atmosphere and perceived soulless design, with one expert calling it a "grim, grey bowl in an urban wasteland."
City Impressions
Cities like Seattle and Kansas City were lauded for their welcoming hospitality and unique charm. Boston and Mexico City were also highlighted for their beauty and vibrant energy. However, some cities like Houston and New Jersey were described as less captivating, with particular criticism aimed at New Jersey's lack of amenities and the sprawling nature of Los Angeles making it difficult to navigate.
Player and Manager Standouts
Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, and Lionel Messi were consistently named among the best players, with Bellingham in particular receiving high praise for his consistent performances for England. Coaches Luis de la Fuente of Spain and Lionel Scaloni of Argentina were recognized for their strategic acumen, while Pedro Leitao Brito of Cape Verde was celebrated for exceeding expectations with his team.