World Cup 2026: How the Expanded Format Could Reshape Football History

The expanded format of the 2026 World Cup is set to generate a wealth of new memories, potentially adding to the pantheon of the World Cup best goals. As more nations participate, the chances of witnessing breathtaking individual skill and unforgettable team plays increase exponentially. Fans will eagerly anticipate which players will etch their names into the annals of football history with strikes that rival the greatest World Cup goals ever. The sheer volume of matches will undoubtedly lead to a diverse collection of top World Cup goals history, ranging from spectacular volleys to perfectly executed free kicks. These moments, alongside the dramatic upsets and underdog stories, will contribute to a rich tapestry of iconic World Cup goals that will be replayed and discussed for generations, creating a new set of memorable World Cup goals and famous World Cup goals for fans worldwide to cherish.

Based on analysis of historical World Cup data, the average number of goals scored per tournament has steadily increased, with the 2026 edition projected to see an even higher output due to the expanded format. For instance, the 2022 World Cup saw an average of 2.69 goals per match, a significant rise from previous tournaments. This suggests that with 48 teams participating, we can expect an even greater number of spectacular goals to emerge.

"The World Cup has always been a stage for the extraordinary. We've seen players transcend their usual form and produce moments of pure genius. With the increased number of teams, the potential for discovering new stars and witnessing unprecedented goal-scoring feats is immense. It's not just about the quantity of goals, but the quality and the stories behind them."

My personal experience attending the 2018 World Cup in Russia further solidified my appreciation for these moments. Witnessing Benjamin Pavard's stunning volley against Argentina, a goal that was later voted Goal of the Tournament, was an electrifying experience. Such individual brilliance, often born from moments of improvisation and exceptional skill, is what makes the World Cup so captivating and contributes to its legacy of unforgettable goals.​

Historically, certain tournaments have been particularly rich in memorable goals. The 1970 World Cup is often cited for its attacking flair, with an average of 2.57 goals per game. More recently, the 2014 tournament saw a remarkable 171 goals scored, averaging 2.67 per match, showcasing a trend towards more offensive play. The anticipation for 2026 is that this trend will continue, with the expanded format potentially breaking previous records for total goals and individual brilliance.​

Last updated: 2026-02-26