Tobin Heath, a two-time FIFA World Cup winner with the U.S. women’s team, analyzed the 2026 tournament as part of FIFA’s Technical Study Group, highlighting record goals, standout players, and the event’s legacy.
The 38-year-old retired forward, who won World Cups in 2015 and 2019 and Olympic gold in 2008 and 2012, shared her perspective in an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera Sport. Heath’s 181 international caps and 36 goals cemented her status as one of football’s most technically gifted playmakers.
Record Goals and Tournament Entertainment
The 2026 World Cup featured 307 goals in 103 matches, averaging nearly three per game. Heath attributed the high scoring to tactical evolution, including counter-pressing and the use of full-backs in attacks. She called the tournament’s diversity of styles and teams a major positive for football.
“This is the evolution of football,” Heath said. “The fans are obviously enjoying it. The top factor is where teams are winning the ball back and how they’re using attack in wide areas.”
Standout Teams and Players
Heath praised African teams like Cape Verde, Egypt, and Ivory Coast for their bold performances, noting Cape Verde’s results against Spain and Argentina. She also highlighted France’s creativity and individual brilliance from stars like Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé, and Lionel Messi.
Among young players, Heath singled out Spain’s Pau Cubarsi and Lamine Yamal, calling Yamal “due for a moment” in the final. She also marveled at Messi’s continued excellence, joking that he could win both a veteran award and player of the tournament.
U.S. Football’s Future and World Cup Legacy
Heath reflected on the World Cup’s impact in the U.S., noting the event’s popularity but questioning its long-term influence on men’s football in the country. She hoped the tournament would inspire future players.
“Winning is a muscle,” Heath said of the gap between contenders and champions. “It’s no surprise that we have two teams in the final that have enjoyed a lot of success in international football.”
