The FIFA World Cup has gifted us with unforgettable moments that define the beautiful game. From Diego Maradona’s mesmerizing goal against England to the iconic imagery of legends like Pele, Lionel Messi, and Cristiano Ronaldo lifting the trophy, the World Cup is a treasure trove of unforgettable memories.
As we prepare for the 2026 World Cup in North America, the anticipation for new moments continues to build. While we don't know yet which moments will be etched into World Cup history, we are certainly looking forward to another exciting tournament. Until then, let's look back at some of the most iconic, controversial, and defining moments from the men’s World Cup.
Countdown to 2026: The Most Iconic World Cup Moments
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be one for the books, taking place from June 11 to July 19, 2026. The tournament will be spread across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with the final taking place at the New York/New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Fans can expect a record number of matches to be aired live on FOX and FS1, with 40 prime-time games. As we await the upcoming tournament, FOX Sports is counting down the top 100 moments in World Cup history. Here are some of the unforgettable highlights that have already shaped the legacy of the tournament.
No. 100: Messi’s Magical Touch Saves Argentina
In the 2018 World Cup, Lionel Messi faced intense pressure after Argentina’s poor start to the tournament, including a 3-0 defeat to Croatia. However, in a do-or-die match against Nigeria, Messi’s brilliance shone through. His incredible first touch and goal were nothing short of magical, sparking Argentina’s 2-1 victory and securing their spot in the knockout rounds. While Argentina was eventually eliminated by France, Messi’s stunning strike remained one of the best goals of the tournament.
Messi’s ability to perform under pressure and save his team in the clutch was a testament to his greatness and is rightfully remembered as one of the greatest World Cup moments.
No. 99: Aboubakar’s Goal Followed by Red Card for Celebration
Cameroon’s Vincent Aboubakar made history in the 2022 World Cup by scoring the game-winning goal against Brazil, marking the first time an African team had defeated the five-time champions in a World Cup. The moment was historic, but what followed was even more bizarre – Aboubakar received a red card for his exuberant shirtless celebration.
Despite the red card, Cameroon’s victory became a symbol of defiance against one of the tournament’s most dominant teams. Although Cameroon was eliminated in the group stage, the red card and celebration became a defining and controversial moment for the tournament.
No. 98: Blanco’s “Cuauhtemiña” – A Move for the Ages
At the 1998 World Cup, Mexican forward Cuauhtémoc Blanco introduced the world to his signature move, known as the "Cuauhtemiña." This iconic trick saw Blanco hop between two South Korean defenders, a move that became synonymous with his name. Though it didn't result in a goal, Blanco's ingenuity and flair were undeniable.
The “Cuauhtemiña” has since become a symbol of Blanco’s creativity and technical skill, capturing the imagination of fans around the world. This move may have been unconventional, but it was a testament to the unpredictable beauty of football.
