FIFA’s largest-ever World Cup concluded on Sunday with Spain defeating Argentina 1-0 in a final held in East Rutherford, New Jersey.The tournament, featuring 48 teams, marked Canada’s first hosting of a men’s World Cup, with Vancouver and Toronto among 16 host cities across Canada, the U.S., and Mexico.

The event showcased Canada’s growing soccer culture, with Prime Minister Mark Carney praising the nation’s resilience and global standing in the sport.Celebrities like Justin Bieber and Drake attended, while political tensions, such as the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade pact dispute, loomed over the tournament.Challenges included visa issues for players like Ghana’s Thomas Partey, who was denied entry to Canada for a match.Despite logistical hurdles, the tournament left a lasting legacy, with organizers highlighting economic and infrastructural benefits.Canada’s national team made history with their first-ever World Cup points and victories, though they were eliminated in the round of 16.The event solidified Canada’s reputation as a premier host nation and a soccer powerhouse.