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

The 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 on 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 match between France and Morocco at Gillette Stadium.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 looks on against Switzerland in Kansas City.Erick W.Rasco / Sports Illustrated via Getty ImagesArgentina fan Victor Caldas watches the semifinal match between England and Argentina with fellow Rikers Island inmates at the jail complex in New York.Seth Wenig / APFrom left: Vozinha of Cabo Verde during a match against Argentina in Miami Gardens, Fla.; A Cape Verde fan with a replica trophy in Houston.Getty ImagesFans watch as the United States lose to Belgium at a FIFA Fan Zone on the National Mall in Washington.Rod Lamkey / APCristiano Ronaldo of Portugal celebrates a goal against Croatia in Toronto.Patrick Smith / FIFA via Getty ImagesNorway fans row in the stands during the first half of a match against Ivory Coast in Arlington, Texas.Juan Figueroa / The Dallas Morning Ne...