The FIFA World Cup 2026, held in North America, has witnessed a notable increase in goals scored from outside the penalty area. According to FIFA’s Technical Study Group (TSG), 16% of goals in this tournament came from outside the box, doubling the 8% recorded at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Football experts, including Jurgen Klinsmann, a member of FIFA’s TSG, attribute this rise to a tactical trend where teams defend in a low block, encouraging forwards to attempt long-range shots. Klinsmann also noted that the high number of players crowded in and around the penalty area complicates goalkeepers' ability to track the ball from a distance.

Highlight moments include Julian Alvarez’s spectacular 22-yard curling goal against a 10-man Switzerland in extra time, securing Argentina’s place in the semifinals. In the third-place match on Saturday, July 19th, English midfielder Declan Rice scored from outside the box in the third minute, contributing to England’s 6-4 victory over France in one of the tournament’s most thrilling encounters.

Additionally, Kylian Mbappe broke the all-time World Cup scoring record with his 22nd goal during the tournament. England’s victory over France in the World Cup Bronze Final was propelled by a hat-trick from Saka. Ahead of the World Cup final, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu declared support for Argentina.

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