Argentina, Haaland, and US Women’s Team Among FIFA World Cup 2026 Standouts
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is reaching its climax with Spain and Argentina set to face off in the final today, where one team will lift the trophy. Over five and a half weeks, 48 teams and countless tourists in the United States have created numerous winners beyond the champion. Argentina’s winning goal against Egypt broke all-time Google search records, highlighting the team’s global impact even before the final.
One surprise star was 40-year-old Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha (Jozimar Jose Aboura Diaz), who helped his small African nation secure draws against Spain and Uruguay and a narrow loss to Argentina. His Instagram followers skyrocketed from 50,000 to 29.3 million during the tournament, with his personal brand valued at $17.7 million according to MarketWatch.
Norwegian striker Erling Haaland also emerged as a major figure, not only for his on-field performance but for his high-end fashion accessories worth over $10,000 per item. Haaland’s Google searches in Israel surged by over 5,000%, surpassing Messi, Mbappe, and Ronaldo. He went viral after sharing a photo with a $750 stuffed raccoon holding a whiskey bottle, purchased in Dallas, which led to the store selling out of the item.
The US women’s national team also scored a win off the pitch. FIFA will distribute $871 million in prize money for the 2026 tournament, nearly double the 2022 amount. The US will receive $16 million for reaching the round of 16, split equally between the men’s and women’s teams under a 2022 agreement. Meanwhile, Fox Network’s $485 million broadcast rights deal paid off with record viewership, including 33 million for the US-Belgium match and nearly 25 million during the England-Norway quarterfinal overtime.
The World Cup also boosted the US economy with fans worldwide spending on hotels, stadiums, and food. However, ticket prices hit record highs, with the final averaging $11,327. In Israel, commentators like Yoram Arbel and Shimi Sasson became notable figures, with Google searches for Sasson rising over 5,000%. The tournament’s cultural and economic ripple effects continue to be felt globally as the final approaches.
