Unbeatable Spain!

The journey has been absolutely thrilling and adventurous, with the players in colourful jerseys lighting up the field with their skills, enthusiasm and passion. The absolute best got the golden atlas. Nevertheless, we saw many emerging players as well as the oldies who might not had luck by their side but stole the hearts of the spectators by their magnetic performances. Overall the vibrant FIFA World Cup 2026 was nothing short of spectacular. There were mixed emotions when things didn't go as planned according to many, but the spirit of sportsmanship and passionate glory kept the flambeau burning for long with commendable effulgence. Schedule matches went on as planned but where the real twist began was at the starting of the knockout stage where the best 32 teams moved on to battle amongst themselves to choose the best among them. Canada, Japan, etc. had to accept their defeats early in the stage, followed by some classics like Cabo Verde, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Portugal and others. Then came the quarter finals, semi finals and the final. The quarters let to the unexpected elimination of many great football teams like Morocco, Belgium, Norway and Switzerland. The semis let down France and England. France's defeat was a heartbreak but Spain was undoubtedly one of the best well balanced teams with only one goal against them by Belgium, add to that a solid defence even Mbappe struggled to infiltrate. The ball control was greatly demonstrated by Spain and at one point many were convinced that 2010 was going to repeat in 2026. England versus Argentina match of the second leg of the semi-final was another gem. The match itself started with intensive quarrels and heavy hitting tackles which seemed like the players were less interested in the ball and more in other players. After the first hydration break, the players regained their interest in the actual ball and then suddenly came the first and only goal of England from Gordon. After the half-time nothing happened before the last fifteen minutes. But, Argentina sprung back to life after that long shot goal from Fernandez. This brought the momentum of the match back. The victory was sealed by the outstanding centre by Messi followed by the flabbergasting header by the last minute substituted player Martinez. Thus, Argentina once again proved its mettle and reiterated once again why it was the world champion. With this, the Latin American team accelerated to the finals to face Spain's tiki taka. The third place play-off match between France and England was a thriller with ten goals been cast in all. France lost to England 4-6 and although it was nothing like the final, both sides displayed a good sport. The final was sweet. Spain showed more patience and greater ball control and possession. Hence, Spain won 1-0. But, I rooted for Argentina. But, what can be done? I'm sad. Better luck next time, Argentina! I never stayed awake late nights just to watch the final stage matches, except the semi-final between England and Argentina and the final match, but the reaction which I got from those who did said the whole story in itself. Hence, there's no hiding the fact that I tried to form my own opinion about the previous day matches from the word of mouth of others as well as the match analysis videos of experts on youtube. Matches like the FIFA World Cup's can be seen only one in four years but when life gives you the opportunity, consider it a treat to the eyes. We will have to wait another four years to get our new football World Cup champions but until then rejoice the victory of the new champions and acknowledge their glory of accepting the golden atlas trophy and also laud the efforts of the winners of the golden boot, ball and glove.