The last time 100 goals were scored so quickly in World Cup history was in 1958. This milestone was also reached in 33 matches in that tournament. However, the fastest feat is still the 1954 World Cup in Switzerland, where 100 goals were scored in just 20 matches. The average goal per match in this World Cup so far is 3.02. If this trend continues, analysts believe that the number of goals could exceed 300 by the end of the 104 matches.
Several important reasons have emerged behind this consistency of goals. The new official match ball, the 'Trionda', has already been discussed. Many goalkeepers are having trouble handling the unusual speed and curve of the ball, resulting in spectacular goals even from long-range shots.
In addition, the number of goals has increased in the expanded format of 48 teams. The participation of new and relatively weak teams has increased the number of matches won by large margins. Results such as Curacao's 7-1 defeat by Germany or Canada's 6-0 defeat of Qatar are examples of such results. The atmosphere of the match is also affecting the game. Due to the intense heat and mandatory hydration breaks, players are tired towards the end of many matches. This is increasing mistakes in the defense, and the players in the attack are taking advantage of that opportunity. Almost 29 percent of the total goals in the tournament came after 76 minutes. Added to this is the excellent form of star footballers. Lionel Messi's hat-trick, Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, Erling Haaland, Harry Kane's goals - all in all, the World Cup 2026 is now a bustling stage for attacking football.
All in all, this year's World Cup has become a festival of goals. Where the swing of the net is becoming a normal scene in every match.