FIFA World Cup 2026- beyond the game
After 39 days, 48 teams competing, we tinkering with our Circadian rhythm to watch the matches, the finals wrapped up at The Metlife Stadium, New Jersey. The world watched with bated breath to see if Messi and Argentina could take the cup home or Spain and Le Roja turn the table for them. A game that was filled with fracas between the two finalists, the jinx of Trump’s presence met with chorus of boo’s in the stadium and a first ever half time show that was more a Superbowl tradition with Madonna, Shakira, bad Bunny, Cold Play, BTS and Justin Bieber gracing the show.
The star spangled (pun intended) celebrities with their heart on their sleeves were spotted cheering raucously amongst which was Lamine Yamal’s adorable little brother. Hoyeon and Carlos Alacaraz, walked out to reveal the World Cup trophy, housed within a custom Louis Vuitton trunk.
Many records were broken not just at the stadium, but at Chandbagh too. The excitement build up for the live screening, the boys wearing their favourite jerseys and the effusive cheers of Messi and Yamal at 02 am enthused even the nonbeliever who gathered along to just understand and feel the madness brewing in the auditorium. The stage was set, the divide stark and the school bled red or blue. Never before were friendships at school defined by who cheered for your team and who didn’t.
Hues of Maradona’s 1990 finals could be seen in what was to be the swan song for Leo. As, they both cried inconsolable, while Germany and Spain respectively lifted their well deserved trophies, it was hard to miss the endeavor of the two tiny “giants” that the Latin country reveres and hold in high esteem. The two captains wanted and hoped for an Odyssey of sorts. The final hurrah, as they hang their boots.
The world cup of 2026 was tainted by the politics and inclusion of Balogan in the quarter finals, Somali referee Omar Artan denied entry, barred from officiating at the 2026 World Cup despite holding a valid visa and the altercations after the final whistle when Argentina’s Nahuel Molina confronted Spain midfielder Rodri.
Unlike Argentina, that relied heavily on a few heavy weights and the magic of Emiliano Martinez, Spain played as a team. Lamine was never the focus. Spanish coach Luis de la Fuenta’s strategy played off. They kept team Messi in check, had possession for about 68% and had 20 attempts at the goal. In sharp contrast Argentina had 0 shots on target. The extended play gave Ferran Torres scored a first-time strike, ably assisted by Nico Williams. The inexorable happened, Spain won the finals and as Messi broke down with tears in his eyes, the whole world seem to cry along.
The most heartbreaking sight was Yamal, a 19-year old hugging and consoling Messi. And just like that, the change of guard happened- from a legend, to one in the making. Let that be the glory of the game we remember! One of camaraderie, fair play, honour and sportsmanship.