World Cup 2026: Supporting players shine.

The 2026 World Cup group stage delivered a feast of goals, with substitutes unexpectedly becoming the stars of the tournament, and goalkeepers playing an increasingly important role in initiating attacks. This is the result of research by the FIFA Technical Research Group after 72 group stage matches.

Of the 215 goals scored in the group stage, 43 were scored by players coming off the bench. Senegal led the way with 4 goals from substitutes.

World Cup 2026: Substitute players shine - The Senegal team (in white) scored 4 goals from players who came on as substitutes. Photo: AP

German striker Deniz Undav delivered an outstanding performance coming off the bench, scoring 3 goals and providing 2 assists to help Germany secure a place in the knockout round as group winners.

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According to the FIFA Technical Research Group, counter-attacking pressing is emerging as a significant tactical trend. The US national team is a prime example. Almost every time they lose possession, they immediately try to regain it through aggressive counter-attacking pressing – a philosophy that coach Mauricio Pochettino has strived to instill in his players.

FIFA research shows that the US, Ecuador, Canada, and Germany clearly demonstrate a counter-attacking pressing philosophy, and data reveals that winning teams regain possession four seconds faster than losing teams, highlighting the importance of reacting when losing control. Instead of retreating deep into defense, winning teams react quickly, regaining possession in the opponent's half to launch counter-attacks.

Another piece of data shows that goalkeepers are no longer simply kicking the ball forward, but are also involved in attacking play from behind. “The goalkeeper is a key player, almost like a midfielder in football,” said former Swiss national team goalkeeper Pascal Zuberbuehler. “Defenders pass the ball to the goalkeeper from goal kicks and they start the attack.”

Zuberbuehler also praised Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, who delivered the man of the match against European champions Spain in a 0-0 draw, helping them secure a place in the knockout stage in their first ever World Cup appearance.

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Source: https://www.qdnd.vn/the-thao/worldcup-2026/world-cup-2026-kep-phu-toa-sang-1046906