The first round of matches in the 2026 World Cup has come to a close, with all 48 teams having taken to the pitch. While some teams struggled to find their footing, others showcased exceptional performances that are sure to be remembered throughout the tournament.
Spain and Portugal, two of the world’s top teams, were among those who struggled to find their rhythm. In contrast, Germany, Sweden, and Argentina ran riot, demonstrating their strength and determination.
Despite the challenges posed by the heat and a long domestic season, many of football’s superstars arrived ready to play, delivering strong performances right from the start. But who were the standout players of the opening round?
Here are 12 players who shone bright in the first round of the 2026 World Cup.
Morocco’s teenage sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi was far from fazed by the task of going up against Casemiro and Bruno Guimarães in Brazil. The 18-year-old delivered an impressive performance, earning praise from former France striker Olivier Giroud and speculation about a potential transfer to Real Madrid.
Colombian-born Mexico forward Julián Quiñones made history by scoring his first World Cup goal against South Africa. He also hit the woodwork and played a crucial role in Mexico’s 4-1 win.
Germany’s Kai Havertz bounced back from a tough season with Arsenal, scoring two goals in his team’s Group E opener against Curaçao. The 27-year-old’s performance was a testament to his determination and skill.
Statistics
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 11, 2026
Kai Havertz
Goals
2
xG
1.01
touches
4
blows
11
opposition box touches
11
Yasin Ayari’s two goals against Tunisia were all the more impressive given that Tunisia had not conceded a goal in qualifying. The Swedish star’s celebration without celebration was a unique moment in the tournament.
Balogun made a name for himself against Paraguay, scoring twice and achieving a higher xG on target than Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland. His aesthetically pleasing second goal is an early contender for Goal of the Tournament.
Statistics
Folarin Balogun
Goals
2
xG
0.47
touches
5
blows
10
opposition box touches
10
In a match that will be remembered for years to come, Harry Kane began his march towards a third Golden Boot at a major international tournament. The England captain took to the pitch against Croatia, scoring two goals and having the most shots and touches in the box.
Motherwell striker Elijah Just was the star of the show for New Zealand in their 2-2 draw against Iran. He linked up wonderfully with experienced Premier League target man Chris Wood for both goals.
Cabo Verde’s 0-0 draw against Spain was a shock of the World Cup so far. Vozinha emerged as the unflappable star of the day, making seven saves and gaining millions of new Instagram followers.
You voted Michael Olise Man of the Match! The attacking midfielder brought his scintillating form from Bayern Munich straight to France, pulling the strings for Les Bleus in their Group I win over Senegal.
Ahead of the tournament, there were questions whether France, embarrassed by its riches, could really be better off without Kylian Mbappé in the front line. Those questions were answered quickly and surely as France tore through Senegal, Mbappé scoring twice to win the match 3-1.
Real Madrid’s second superstar, in particular, has been one for the ages and, after a turbulent season, served as a reminder that, for all the hype, he is very, very good at it.
Statistics
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 17, 2026
Kylian Mbappé
Goals
2
xG
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 16, 2026
0.78
touches
4
blows
7
opposition box touches
7
Mbappé’s brace earlier in the day served as a ‘hold my beer’ moment for Erling Haaland. The Norwegian superstar finally made his bow on the World Cup stage, netting twice and registering an assist against an Iraq side that were left shaken by the willpower that is Haaland.
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 16, 2026
The Golden Boot Race is on.
Are we ready for a scenario where Lionel Messi is still, at almost 39 years old, the best player in the world? On his 200th appearance for Argentina, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner hit a hat-trick against Algeria to equal World Cup top scorer Miroslav Klose (16).
Player
Goals
Matches played
Miroslav Klose
16
24
Lionel Messi
16
27
Ronaldo
15
19
Gerd Müller
14
— Erling Haaland (@ErlingHaaland) June 17, 2026
13
Kylian Mbappé
14
15
Only Fontaine
13
6
Pele
12
14
12. Ayyoub Bouaddi
11. Julián Quiñones
10. Kai Havertz
9. Yasin Ayari
8. Folarin Balogun
7. Harry Kane
6. Elijah the Just
5. Vozinha
4. Michael Olise
3. Kylian Mbappé
2. Erling Haaland
1. Lionel Messi
Havertz vs Curaçao
Balogun vs Paraguay
All-time leading scorer at the World Cup
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