World Cup Data Review: Late Comebacks, Ambitious Passing and an xG Milestone
This article from The Athletic provides a comprehensive data analysis of the 2026 World Cup, which saw Spain crowned champions after a dominant final against Argentina. Key findings include the highest goals-per-game rate (2.96) since 1970, with 37 more goals scored than expected goals (xG) would predict, marking a 14% overperformance. The expanded 48-team tournament produced 104 games and record-breaking individual performances, notably Kylian Mbappe winning the Golden Boot with 10 goals, becoming the all-time World Cup top scorer with 22 goals. Six players scored six or more goals, a depth of scoring unprecedented in recent tournaments. The article also notes 14 own goals, breaking the previous record of 12, and discusses tactical trends such as late comebacks and ambitious passing.
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