The 2026 World Cup has reached its final furlong with just two matches left — Sunday’s final between Spain and Argentina in New Jersey, and tonight’s bronze match between France and England. The tournament, expanded to 48 teams — 16 more than Qatar — has already seen 15 red cards, including three in the opening match alone: two South African players and one Mexican sent off.
Argentina secured their place in the final with a stunning 2-1 comeback win over England on Wednesday, scoring twice in eight minutes to overturn a deficit. Spain were equally impressive, dismantling France in their semi-final to stop their attacking firepower.
“Spain stars dominate team of tournament as 15 red cards shock the World Cup”
In the bronze final, France and England face off in the match nobody wants to play in. But the tournament’s standout performers have been recognised in The Independent’s team of the tournament, voted by its writers and arranged in a 4-3-3 formation.
Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, 40, kept a clean sheet against Spain on his side’s World Cup debut and gained 17 million Instagram followers after his international campaign. He then made eight saves in an extra-time loss to Argentina in the last 32. Spain contribute four players: Tottenham’s Pedro Porro, who scored his first international goal and finished the “team goal” of the tournament; Aymeric Laporte, forming an outstanding partnership with Pau Cubarsi and conceding just one goal; Marc Cucurella, whose marauding runs and defensive solidity contrast with his Chelsea form; and captain Rodri, who marshalled a defence that has conceded only one goal. France’s Dayot Upamecano is also included, a key figure in clean sheets against Sweden, Paraguay and Morocco.
Under new FIFA rules, any player sent off misses their nation’s next match, though FIFA can extend the ban. Players can now also be shown red for covering their mouth with their shirt or leaving the pitch in protest at a referee’s decision. If a player is sent off in the final, they will miss the next official match — a friendly or qualifier.