World Cups are remembered for their goals — and FIFA 2026 has produced some of the most spectacular strikes in the tournament's history. Here are the best goals of the competition.
The Moments That Stopped the World
The Puskas Award Frontrunner — A Solo Run for the Ages
One of the tournament's standout players picked up the ball near their own half, beat three defenders with pace and skill, then curled an unstoppable finish into the top corner. The stadium fell silent before erupting — a goal so good it felt impossible.
The Long-Range Screamer in the Knockout Rounds
A midfielder who had gone largely unnoticed launched a 35-yard thunderbolt that gave the goalkeeper no chance. The kind of strike that reminds you why football is the world's sport.
The Overhead Kick Nobody Saw Coming
A striker with his back to goal leapt to meet a cross and connected with a perfect bicycle kick. From the moment it left his boot, everyone in the stadium knew it was going in.
The Free-Kick That Bent Physics
Taken wide on the left, with the wall perfectly positioned, the free-kick somehow found the far top corner by swerving past the wall AND the goalkeeper's dive. A set-piece masterpiece.
The Counter-Attack Goal in 4 Passes
Arguably the best team goal of the tournament — won the ball in their own box, four passes later the ball is in the net at the other end. Speed, precision and movement that made the opposing defence look stationary.
The Puskas Award Race
FIFA's annual award for the best goal of the year will be heavily influenced by FIFA World Cup 2026 — every major contender has come from matches at this tournament. The winner will be announced later in 2026.
Goals win trophies, but beautiful goals win hearts. FIFA World Cup 2026 has added dozens of moments to the tournament's all-time highlight reel.
