2026 World Cup: Top 12 Individual Performances from Opening Group Matches
2026 World Cup: Top 12 Individual Performances from Opening Group Matches
The first round of the 2026 World Cup has wrapped up, giving us a clear picture of what to expect over the next month. All 48 teams have played their opening matches, and some familiar stars immediately made their mark.
Two of the three host nations secured wins, while heavyweights like Germany, Sweden, and Argentina dominated their opponents. Meanwhile, Spain and Portugal faced unexpected struggles. And yes, we quickly got used to hearing about hydration breaks.
Which players stood out in these first games? Despite the heat and long club seasons, many top players showed up ready to impress right away. Here are 12 individuals who electrified fans on matchday one.
12. Ayyoub Bouaddi
At just 18 years old, Ayyoub Bouaddi faced off against Brazil’s midfield giants Casemiro and Bruno Guimarães without flinching. Morocco's young star earned praise after their 1–1 draw with Brazil in Group C. His breakout potential is already attracting attention from Arsenal and Real Madrid.
Former France striker Olivier Giroud said on BBC, "At Lille, we make fun of Bouaddi a lot because of his finishing. If he has that quality, he will be playing for Real Madrid next year." He even compared Bouaddi to Sergio Busquets.
11. Julián Quiñones
Making history, Mexico’s Colombian-born forward Julián Quiñones scored the tournament’s first goal, joining legends like Pelé and Philipp Lahm in that honor. His sharp finish helped Mexico get off to a flying start against South Africa in Group A. Quiñones also hit the woodwork and was lively throughout the match.
10. Kai Havertz
After a challenging season with fitness issues at Arsenal, Kai Havertz showed he’s finding form at the right time. The 27-year-old netted twice in Germany’s comfortable Group E win over Curaçao. The opposition wasn’t the toughest, but Havertz made the most of his chances.
9. Yasin Ayari
Yasin Ayari scored two stunning goals against Tunisia, the country of his father’s birth. The Sweden star’s apology celebration spoke volumes about his connection. His performance helped Sweden cruise to a 5–1 victory against a Tunisian team that hadn’t conceded during qualification.
8. Folarin Balogun
Folarin Balogun made waves against Paraguay, scoring twice including a beautifully curled goal into the top corner. Only Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland had a higher expected goals on target (xG) than Balogun in the opening round. His calmness under pressure stood out in the US’s 4–1 win.
7. Harry Kane
Harry Kane began his pursuit of a third Golden Boot at a major international tournament. The England captain scored twice in the 4–2 win over Croatia, leading with seven shots and nine touches in the box. He also dropped deep to orchestrate play, showing his versatility.
6. Elijah Just
New Zealand’s Elijah Just shone brightly in a thrilling 2–2 draw against Iran. Partnering well with Chris Wood, Just’s performance surprised many and turned the match into one of the tournament’s early highlights.
5. Vozinha
The biggest surprise came from Cabo Verde’s goalkeeper Vozinha, who made seven crucial saves to deny Spain in a 0–0 Group H draw. At 40 years old, Vozinha held firm against Spain’s star-studded attack, frustrating Pedri, Mikel Oyarzabal, Ferran Torres, and Lamine Yamal.
4. Michael Olise
Attacking midfielder Michael Olise brought his Bayern Munich flair to France’s Group I win over Senegal. His creativity and control made him one of the most entertaining players on display.
3. Kylian Mbappé
Kylian Mbappé answered doubts about his place in France’s frontline by scoring twice in a 3–1 victory over Senegal. His second goal was a masterpiece, reminding everyone why he remains one of the best in the world after a turbulent season.
2. Erling Haaland
The day Mbappé scored twice felt like a cue for Norway’s Erling Haaland to show up. Making his World Cup debut, Haaland scored two goals and provided an assist in Norway’s dominant win over Iraq. His physical presence and determination left Iraq defenders scrambling.
1. Lionel Messi
Nearly 39 and still at the top of his game, Lionel Messi marked his 200th appearance for Argentina by scoring a hat trick against Algeria. This performance tied him with Miroslav Klose as the World Cup’s all-time leading scorer with 16 goals.
Algeria midfielder Ibrahim Maza simply said after the game: "Messi things." That sums it up.
