Lionel Messi’s quest for a second FIFA World Cup title ended in disappointment as Argentina fell 1-0 to Spain after extra time in the 2026 final. The defeat also meant the Argentine captain missed out on another major individual honour, with Spain midfielder Rodri being named the winner of the FIFA World Cup Golden Ball.

Many expected Messi to claim the tournament’s best player award after another outstanding campaign. However, Rodri’s influence throughout Spain’s title-winning run earned him the honour, highlighting the importance of his role in one of the tournament’s most dominant teams.

Lionel Messi’s outstanding World Cup campaign

At 39, Messi once again proved why he remains one of football’s greatest players. He guided Argentina to a second consecutive FIFA World Cup final, finishing the tournament with eight goals and four assists.

Only France forward Kylian Mbappe produced better attacking numbers, ending the competition with 10 goals and four assists. Messi also entered the final with 21 career FIFA World Cup goals, before Mbappe overtook that tally by scoring twice in France’s third-place playoff to reach 22.

There was also hope among Argentina supporters that Messi would collect a record-extending third Golden Ball after previously winning the award in 2014 and 2022.

Throughout the tournament, Messi repeatedly delivered in decisive moments. In the Round of 16 against Egypt, he inspired Argentina’s comeback after the team had fallen 2-0 behind. In the semifinal against England, Argentina trailed until the closing stages before Messi produced two assists that led to goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez in a dramatic late turnaround.

The final, however, proved to be a different challenge. Spain’s disciplined midfield restricted Argentina’s captain, limiting him to just 15 touches in the first half and 54 touches across the entire match.

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Why Rodri was chosen as the Golden Ball winner?

Rodri may not have finished the FIFA World Cup 2026 with goals or assists, but his contribution went far beyond attacking numbers. The Spain captain was the heartbeat of Luis de la Fuente’s midfield, controlling possession and dictating the tempo throughout the tournament. According to FIFA statistics, Rodri completed 753 passes with an impressive 94 per cent accuracy rate.

He was also involved in 1,803 plays during the competition, nearly 200 more than any other player at the tournament, underlining his constant involvement in Spain’s build-up play. His performances were especially important after returning from an eight-month injury layoff following knee surgery in 2025.

Reflecting on his journey after receiving the award, Rodri said: “For me, it’s been a very tough time. I just want the new generation to see my example as proof that if you go down, you can rise again. This has been my philosophy throughout my life. Of course, sometimes things go well, sometimes things go wrong. But always stay positive.”

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FIFA explains Rodri’s impact

FIFA also highlighted the midfielder’s contribution during Spain’s successful campaign. “The midfielder was a steady presence in the centre of the park for La Roja in their eight matches, helping them win their second global crown,” FIFA wrote in its report.

The governing body also praised Rodri’s influence on both sides of the ball. “His linking of defence with attack, timely interventions and pinpoint passing played a large role in Spain’s conquest, not least in the 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in the final at New York New Jersey Stadium.”

Rodri’s display in the final reflected his consistency throughout the tournament. He completed 101 of his 105 passes, won 80 per cent of his duels and created two scoring chances.

FIFA further noted: “In the decider, the 30-year-old completed 101 of 105 passes, won 80 per cent of his duels and created two chances. Across the whole tournament, meanwhile, his intelligent work supporting his defenders was one of the factors in Spain conceding just one goal in their eight matches.”

While Messi once again produced memorable performances during Argentina’s run to the final, Rodri’s control, consistency and influence across Spain’s unbeaten campaign ultimately earned him the FIFA World Cup 2026 Golden Ball award.

FAQs

Why did Rodri win the FIFA World Cup 2026 Golden Ball?

Rodri won the Golden Ball for his outstanding midfield performances, helping Spain win the World Cup with his passing, defensive work and control of matches.

How did Lionel Messi perform at the FIFA World Cup 2026?

Messi scored eight goals and provided four assists as he guided Argentina to the final before losing 1-0 to Spain after extra time.