Grading the 2026 World Cup from Spain's A to Infantino's F

Key Points:

• Spain won the 2026 FIFA World Cup, conceding only one goal throughout the tournament and extending their unbeaten streak to 38 games, establishing themselves as the best team globally.
• Cape Verde impressed as underdogs, reaching the round of 32 without losing in regular time and drawing against Spain, earning high praise for their performance.
• Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, reached the final but were criticized for poor sportsmanship after losing to Spain, resulting in a middling overall grade despite Messi's strong individual showing.
• Major teams like Germany and Brazil had disappointing tournaments, with Germany exiting in the round of 32 and Germany's coach being fired, while Brazil experienced their worst World Cup performance in 36 years.
• Standout players included Erling Haaland, who scored seven goals and became a fan favorite, and Kylian Mbappé, who won his second consecutive Golden Boot with 10 goals, while several high-profile coaches and figures received poor grades for their teams' performances and tournament management.