Seven own goals scored at 2026 World Cup so far

SALADIN, Iraq — Seven own goals have been recorded at the 2026 World Cup, drawing attention to defensive mistakes in the tournament. The figure compares with only two own goals across the entirety of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, according to media reports. The goals were scored by Paraguay against the United States, Switzerland against Qatar, Egypt against Belgium, Iraq's Aymen Hussein against Norway, Jordan's Yazan Al-Arab against Austria, Qatar's Mohammed Munaid against Canada, and Australia's Cameron Burgess against the United States. Analysis cited in the reports attributed the rise to increased attacking intensity, quicker crosses into the penalty area and high pressing, which they said shortened defenders' decision time. The reports added that own goals directly affected match outcomes and noted that the market value of the players responsible could fall on platforms such as Transfermarkt, potentially reducing club interest during transfer windows.