New York, July 20: Spain clinched the FIFA World Cup 2026 title by defeating Argentina 1-0 in the final match. Midfielder Rodri showcased exceptional performance throughout the tournament, earning him the prestigious ‘Golden Ball’ award, given to the tournament’s best player.
Rodri’s remarkable skills were on full display as Spain secured their second World Cup title by overcoming Argentina in extra time. The only goal of the match was scored by Ferran Torres.
Throughout the tournament, Rodri played all eight matches, demonstrating outstanding performance. He recorded the most successful passes, covered the greatest distance, and had the highest number of touches on the ball. His precise passing and excellent coordination between defense and attack were crucial to Spain’s success. In the final, Rodri completed 101 out of 105 passes, won 80% of his duels, and created two goal-scoring opportunities. His intelligent play in supporting the defenders contributed to Spain conceding only one goal in eight matches.
Rodri has become the 11th player in football history to win the World Cup, UEFA Champions League, and Ballon d’Or. After winning the Ballon d’Or in 2024, he has now added the World Cup’s ‘Golden Ball’ to his accolades. Previously, he was also named the best player at the European Championship. Spain’s Pau Cubarsi was awarded ‘Young Player of the Tournament,’ while goalkeeper Unai Simon secured the ‘Golden Glove’ award with seven clean sheets.
Here is the list of Golden Ball winners in FIFA World Cup history:
– 1978: Mario Kempes (Argentina)
– 1982: Paolo Rossi (Italy)
– 1986: Diego Maradona (Argentina)
– 1990: Salvatore Schillaci (Italy)
– 1994: Romário (Brazil)
– 1998: Ronaldo (Brazil)
– 2002: Oliver Kahn (Germany)
– 2006: Zinedine Zidane (France)
– 2010: Diego Forlán (Uruguay)
– 2014: Lionel Messi (Argentina)
– 2018: Luka Modrić (Croatia)
– 2022: Lionel Messi (Argentina)
– 2026: Rodri (Spain)
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