Football is cyclical, and trends come and go. After the rise of inverted wingers who cut inside to shoot, we may be witnessing the return of traditional wingers—those who hug the touchline and deliver crosses on their stronger foot. At the 2026 World Cup, goals from crosses are abundant.
Record goals from crosses
In the first two rounds of matches, 29 of the 48 teams scored at least one goal within five seconds of a cross into the box. That is already five more teams than at any previous World Cup on record since 1966, even accounting for tournament size differences.
According to Opta Analyst, goals within five seconds of a cross are occurring at a rate of 0.98 per game, on track to surpass the previous high of 0.97 in 2002. Only two other tournaments—2014 (0.80) and 1974 (0.82)—have reached 0.8 goals per game. In Qatar 2022, the rate was 0.77 per game.
Netherlands and Portugal lead the way
The Netherlands have been chief exponents, scoring from crosses in both their first two games. Virgil van Dijk headed in a deep delivery from Ryan Gravenberch against Japan, while Brian Brobbey converted two low crosses and Cody Gakpo scored at the back post from Denzel Dumfries’ assist in the 5-0 win over Sweden.
Portugal have also scored four goals within five seconds of a cross, including three against Uzbekistan. Cristiano Ronaldo opened the scoring with a brilliant finish from João Cancelo’s low cross.
Norway scored three goals from crosses against Iraq, with Erling Haaland racing in to prod home at the back post. The low, driven cross into the “corridor of uncertainty” has been a feature, benefiting players like Lamine Yamal, Gakpo, and Brobbey.
Quality over quantity
Surprisingly, the increase in goals from crosses is not due to more crosses being attempted. Matches are averaging 31.5 crosses per game, the fewest on record. However, the quality is higher. The average expected assist (xA) value of completed crosses is 0.076, the highest ever recorded for a full tournament, surpassing the previous high of 0.068 in 2014.
The proportion of crosses finding a teammate stands at 24.1%, marginally behind Italia 90 (24.38%) and 1978 (24.19%). Set pieces also play a role, with 0.36 goals per game from corners, the third-highest frequency on record.
Technology and tactics
One explanation for the trend is the use of VAR and semi-automated offside technology, allowing attackers to time runs without fear of incorrect offside calls. Teams are also deliberately exploiting gaps behind full-backs to penetrate packed defences.
Canada exemplified this against nine-man Qatar, delivering 55 crosses—the most in a World Cup game since Spain’s 57 against Switzerland in 2010. Despite Qatar sitting deep, Canada scored three goals directly or indirectly from crosses.
Not always effective
However, crossing is not a guaranteed strategy. Of the nine instances where a team recorded 30+ crosses in a single game, only Canada won, and they were aided by Qatar having two men sent off. Variety and smart decision-making remain crucial.
The proportion of goals scored within five seconds of a cross is 33.3%, second only to 2002 (38.5%). As the tournament progresses and weaker teams exit, the number of crosses may decline. For now, there is a hint of nostalgia for classic wing play, but more evidence is needed to declare its full return.
