In recent years, the World Cup has witnessed a remarkable trend of underdog teams making exceptional performances. Traditional powerhouses like Brazil, Germany, and Italy have faced unexpected challenges from lesser-known teams. In the 2018 World Cup, Croatia, a team with a population of just over four million, reached the final, defying all odds. Similarly, Costa Rica and Iceland have made impressive strides, proving that size and reputation do not always determine success in football.
Gone are the days of low-scoring affairs at the World Cup. In the last few tournaments, we have witnessed an unprecedented number of goals. The 2014 World Cup in Brazil broke the record for the most goals scored in a single tournament, with an astonishing total of 171 goals. This trend continued in Russia in 2018, with a total of 169 goals. The increase in attacking play, improved training techniques, and the evolution of tactics have all contributed to this thrilling spectacle of high-scoring games.
Introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system has been one of the most significant developments in the recent World Cups. VAR allows referees to review key incidents during matches, such as goals, penalties, and red card decisions. This addition has brought about more accurate decision-making and reduced the chances of controversial moments deciding the outcome of matches. While VAR has attracted its fair share of criticism, there is no denying its role in promoting fair play and enhancing the overall quality of the tournament.
World Cup tournaments have often served as a platform for young and relatively unknown players to shine on the global stage. In recent years, we witnessed the emergence of talents like Kylian Mbappé, who played a vital role in France's World Cup triumph in 2018 at the tender age of 19. Other rising stars include James Rodriguez, who won the Golden Boot in 2014, and Croatia's Luka Modrić, who was awarded the Golden Ball in 2018. These players have not only revitalized their own national teams but have also captivated the world with their skill and brilliance.
The rise of women's football has been another significant development in recent World Cup history. The success of tournaments like the FIFA Women's World Cup has fueled the growth of the sport globally. The 2019 Women's World Cup in France saw record-breaking television ratings and social media engagement, showcasing the growing popularity and importance of women's football. As more nations invest in women's football programs and the game becomes more competitive, the future of women's World Cups promises to be even more captivating and enthralling.
In conclusion, the World Cup in recent years has been filled with surprises, goals, technological advancements, emerging stars, and an expansion of women's football. These developments have not only made the tournament more exciting but have also played a significant role in shaping the future of the sport on a global scale.
