Best Goal, Best Player, Best Fans – BBC Reporters’ World Cup Awards
Best goal best player best fans – The 2022 FIFA World Cup has drawn to a close, leaving behind a legacy of thrilling moments, record-breaking feats, and unforgettable heroes. Across 104 matches spanning nearly six weeks, the tournament captivated fans worldwide with its drama and surprises. Here are insights from BBC reporters, highlighting standout performances and memorable moments.
Golden Ball: Rodri’s Leadership
Spain’s Rodri was named the official World Cup Golden Ball winner, cementing his status as the tournament’s top player. His composure, intelligence, and pivotal role in Manchester City’s success were mirrored in his impact for Spain, where he became an irreplaceable force. As one reporter noted, his performances were ‘exceptional’ and ‘effective’ in anchoring the best team of the competition.
“Rodri has proved to be irreplaceable for his country as he is for Manchester City. Exceptional and so effective at the heart of the best team in the tournament,” said John Murray of BBC Radio 5 Live.
Silver Ball: Messi’s Resilience
Lionel Messi, at 39, defied expectations with his determination and skill, securing the Silver Ball as the second-best player. His leadership was critical in Argentina’s pursuit of glory, steering them through the most challenging matches. Despite England’s efforts to silence him in the semi-final, Messi’s two assists proved decisive, underscoring his enduring influence.
“Doing this at the age of 39 is almost defying the law of physics. He is cementing his place as the greatest,” remarked John Murray.
Bronze Ball: Mbappe’s Dominance
Kylian Mbappe, the French sensation, claimed the Bronze Ball after a stellar campaign. His composure under pressure and flair on the pitch were evident in moments like the semi-final against Spain, where his demeanor off the field translated into electric performances. As John Bennett described, he looked ‘relaxed, confident, and determined’ to make the World Cup his own.
“I was in a Mbappe news conference early in the World Cup and I remember thinking that I’d never seen him looking more relaxed, more confident and more determined to make this his tournament,” shared John Bennett from BBC World Service.
Best Goal: A Moment of Magic
Phil McNulty, BBC Sport’s chief football writer, highlighted a ‘magnificent’ goal that defined the tournament. The moment came as Argentina’s Messi orchestrated a dramatic semi-final victory over England, showcasing his ability to control the game’s rhythm. His hat-trick not only matched the record set by Miroslav Klose but also solidified his legacy as a football icon.
“Lionel Messi. Not simply a swansong for a 39-year-old closing down his career, but the enduring inspiration of a nation and a football team. Look at how he controlled the game and pulled the strings when Argentina chased England down in a dramatic semi-final,” said Phil McNulty.
Best Save: A Last-Minute Hero
McNulty also praised a standout save that kept the momentum in England’s favor. While the exact details of the moment remain vivid in the memory of the press box, the ball’s near miss against a post in the last 32 was a defining image of the tournament’s unpredictability.
“The whole press box erupted thinking it was going in, only for the ball to crash against a post,” recounted Ian Dennis of BBC Radio 5 Live.
Breakout Stars and Unlikely Heroes
While Messi and Rodri dominated the awards, other players carved their own paths. Jude Bellingham, the Real Madrid midfielder, was lauded for his relentless drive, propelling England through difficult games with a ‘force of will.’ Meanwhile, Michael Olise, the 24-year-old forward, made a mark with seven assists, including a stunning scissor-kick against Sweden that left fans in awe.
“At just 24, Olise has another World Cup or two up his sleeve. I’m still playing replays in my mind of that spectacular scissor-kick against Sweden in the last 32,” shared Neil Johnston of BBC Sport.
Young Talent and Global Impact
Spain’s Pau Cubarsi, a 19-year-old centre-back, earned the FIFA Young Player Award for his role in the team’s flawless defense, which conceded just one goal. His performance in the semi-final against France was described as ‘magnificent’ by Phil McNulty, signaling his potential as a future star.
On the global stage, Cape Verde’s Vozinha, a 40-year-old goalkeeper, dazzled with seven sensational saves in a single match. Meanwhile, Morocco’s Ayyoub Bouaddi made an immediate impact, drawing comparisons to Patrick Vieira and Luka Modric for his intelligent play during a high-stakes opening clash against Brazil.
“It sounds strange to call Erling Haaland a breakout star but it is hard to explain the impact he has had here in the US. He has become a household name and even more of a global superstar,” noted Alex Howell of BBC Sport’s England team.
