The 2026 FIFA World Cup, held in the United States, Canada and Mexico, has ended with Spain winning the title. Despite the high ticket prices, visa complications, refereeing controversies and intense heat throughout the tournament, some moments off the field have won the hearts of millions of football fans. In addition to football, humanity, love and camaraderie have also been seen repeatedly during this six-week tournament.
Vojina’s incredible performance in front of her mother
Cape Verde’s 40-year-old goalkeeper, Zosimer Dias, made a brilliant save to earn a 0-0 draw against Spain. However, his mother was initially unable to attend the match as she could not afford a US visa. After the matter went viral on social media, US authorities arranged for her to travel. She later enjoyed her son’s memorable performance from the field in Miami.
Lamin Yamal’s younger brother Kane also became a star
While Spain’s young star Lamine Yamal won the World Cup, his three-year-old younger brother Kane was the center of attention. His running to his older brother after every match and his simple and joyful presence on the field have received a huge response on social media.
Colombia fans stop crying for little Uzbek fan
A young Uzbek fan broke down in tears in the stands after the loss to Colombia. Colombian fans nearby chanted Uzbekistan’s name to console him. After the incident went viral, the Uzbekistan football team invited the child to a training camp and gifted him a jersey and a souvenir.
Marlin the duck becomes Mexico’s unofficial mascot
A pet duck named Marlin, wearing a Mexico jersey, caught the eye of spectators at the World Cup. It later became the team’s unofficial mascot. Despite losing to England in the Round of Sixteen, a Mexican fan set an example of camaraderie by giving a doll of Marlin to a young English fan of the opposing team.
Star footballer’s gift for student wearing Christmas sweater
A Mexican schoolboy, Santi, came to support the national team in a red and green Christmas sweater because the national team didn’t have a jersey. Mexican forward Santiago Jimenez was impressed by the video and later sent the child his country’s official jersey.
Hey Jude across the gallery for Jude Bellingham
The Beatles’ popular song “Hey Jude” rang out in the stands after almost every match, impressed by England midfielder Jude Bellingham’s brilliant performance. The same scene was seen in the third-place match, which is one of the most memorable moments of the World Cup.
Curaçao coach’s tears touch the world
Curacao’s 78-year-old coach Dick Advocaat could not contain his emotions as the national anthem played for the first time in his World Cup debut. Despite losing by a large margin to Germany, his first goal at the World Cup and the pride of representing the smallest country brought tears to his eyes. The scene moved football fans around the world.
