The 2026 World Cup final between Argentina and Spain has not yet taken place, but clear winners and losers have already emerged off the pitch, according to Guardian US soccer editors Alexander Abnos and Ella Brockway.
Argentina Defeats England in Semi-Finals
Host Carter Sherman, joined by Max Rushden of the Guardian’s Football Weekly podcast, discussed Argentina’s semi-final victory over England. Rushden described Lionel Messi as “probably the greatest footballer ever,” highlighting his impact on the tournament.
Final Preview: Argentina vs. Spain
As Argentina prepares to face Spain in the final, Rushden noted key aspects to watch, including Messi’s leadership and Argentina’s tactical approach. The match is expected to be a showcase of high-level football.
Vibes Contest: Winners and Losers
Abnos and Brockway analyzed memorable moments from the tournament and determined who won the World Cup vibes contest. The winner was not Donald Trump, who was notably absent from the positive vibes list. Instead, the editors pointed to cultural moments and fan experiences that defined the tournament.
Off-Pitch Highlights
The tournament saw several off-pitch developments, including political statements and fan engagement. The editors emphasized that the World Cup’s spirit was captured more by grassroots celebrations than by political figures.
