Two matches remain in the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup, and the buzz is reaching a fever pitch. England and France will battle for third place in Miami on Saturday night, while Spain and Argentina clash in the grand finale at New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday. It’s been a wild ride across North America, with the United States, Canada, and Mexico all playing host. But one of the tournament’s most surprising converts? ESPN college football analyst Kirk Herbstreit.
Herbstreit, who spends most of his year dissecting pigskin and playoff scenarios, has openly admitted he’s not a soccer guy. But after diving headfirst into the World Cup, he’s become one of its biggest cheerleaders. Following Argentina’s 2-1 victory over England in the semifinals, Herbstreit took to social media to gush about the experience.
“Went from not knowing a thing 3 weeks ago about all these teams and players to being completely consumed with the World Cup!” Herbstreit wrote on X. “Been an absolute blast enjoying the matches-appreciating the passion of each fanbase-and loving the world class competition! So glad i gave it a chance with an open mind and haven’t missed a match. Cant wait for Sunday!!! Congrats to Argentina and Spain and their fans-gonna be such an awesome build up-match-and post match scene! Grateful for every venue hosting this event and all the passionate fans who filled the stadiums. AWESOME!”
A Convert's Journey
Herbstreit’s transformation from skeptic to superfan is a testament to the World Cup’s magnetic pull. He’s not alone—many casual sports fans have found themselves glued to matches, drawn in by the drama, skill, and sheer unpredictability. The 2026 edition has delivered plenty of that, from heartfelt moments of sportsmanship to controversial calls that have fans buzzing.
For Herbstreit, the appeal goes beyond the game itself. He’s been captivated by the vibrant fan cultures, the electric atmospheres in packed stadiums, and the global stage that brings together nations. “It’s been an absolute blast enjoying the matches—appreciating the passion of each fanbase—and loving the world class competition!” he said.
The Road to the Final
The tournament has had its share of drama. England’s semifinal loss to Argentina sparked outrage among their supporters, with some calling for manager Thomas Tuchel’s head. Meanwhile, Argentina’s Lionel Messi has been dazzling, putting the MLS in an unlikely spotlight as he leads his team to the final. Spain, on the other hand, has been a revelation, combining youthful flair with tactical discipline.
Herbstreit’s newfound fandom echoes a broader trend: Americans are embracing the beautiful game like never before. The 2026 World Cup has broken viewing records, and even diehard college football analysts are tuning in. “So glad i gave it a chance with an open mind and haven’t missed a match,” Herbstreit wrote, capturing the sentiment of millions who’ve discovered the tournament’s magic.
What's Next
With the final just days away, Herbstreit is already bracing for the post-World Cup void. “The World Cup will be very much missed when it’s gone this year, that’s for sure,” he said. For now, he’s soaking in every moment, from the buildup to the match itself and the celebrations that follow. “Grateful for every venue hosting this event and all the passionate fans who filled the stadiums. AWESOME!”
As the soccer world turns its eyes to the final, one thing is clear: Kirk Herbstreit is now a believer. And he’s not alone.
