A look at the most exciting moments from the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Ferran Torres of Spain celebrates after scoring the only goal of the World Cup final against Argentina in East Rutherford, N.J., on Sunday.David Ramos / Getty ImagesSoccerA look at the most exciting moments from the 2026 FIFA World CupSpain took home the World Cup trophy after a 1-0 win over Argentina in extra time in the final. The tournament began June 11. Listen to this article with a free profile00:0000:00ShareAdd NBC News to GoogleJuly 19, 2026, 7:07 PM EDTBy NBC News Digital Art and Photo DepartmentThe 2026 World Cup has come to a close.Subscribe to read this story ad-freeGet unlimited access to ad-free articles and exclusive content.Spain is the winner after a thrilling 1-0 win in the final, holding off Lionel Messi and Argentina from winning a second consecutive title.The tournament began June 11 with the opening match in Mexico before play extended to the United States and Canada. It was an exciting tournament overall, as well as the first to feature 48 teams. New heroes — such as Cape Verde’s goalkeeper Vozinha — were created, while several of the sport’s legends — such as Messi and France’s Kylian Mbappé — continued putting their stamp on the world’s biggest stage. Here’s a look back at the tournament through some of the NBC News photo team’s favorite images, featuring unique atmospheres, raucous fans, the most memorable moments and more. On-field celebrations during the quarterfinal between France and Morocco in Foxborough, Mass.Ira L. Black / FIFA via Getty ImagesClockwise from top left: A watch party in London; Japan supporters in Houston; U.S. fans at Los Angeles Stadium; a Haiti supporter in Port-au-Prince.Getty ImagesArgentina superstar Lionel Messi against Switzerland in Kansas City, Mo.Erick W. Rasco / Sports Illustrated via Getty ImagesArgentina fan Victor Caldas watches the semifinal against England with fellow Rikers Island inmates at the jail complex in New York.Seth Wenig / APFrom left: Vozinha of Cape Verde against Argentina in Miami Gardens...