sports
World Cup 2026 sees double the share of goals from outside the box
FIFA reported that 16 percent of goals at the ongoing World Cup came from outside the penalty area, up from 8 percent in 2022. Officials attributed the rise to defensive blocks that leave space for long-range attempts.
Jul 18, 11:34 PM·1m read1 source
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FIFA’s Technical Study Group said 16 percent of goals scored at the World Cup in North America came from outside the penalty area, compared with 8 percent at the 2022 tournament in Qatar. The increase follows a pattern in which teams defend in low blocks, leaving forwards with fewer options inside the area and prompting more attempts from distance.
the Technical Study
Group said the number of players clustered near the box creates openings for shots from farther out. The same official noted that crowded penalty areas also make it harder for goalkeepers to follow the ball.
Argentina’s reliance on distance Argentina has scored five goals from outside the box during the tournament. One came from midfielder Enzo Fernandez in the 85th minute of a semifinal against England, and another from forward Julian Alvarez from 22 yards in extra time against Switzerland.
In the third-place match on Saturday, midfielder Declan Rice scored from outside the box in the third minute of a 6-4 win over France.
