The Players Who Have Lit Up The Opening Weeks

The opening weeks of the tournament has delivered its fair share of standout moments. Established superstars have reminded everyone why they remain among the game’s elite, while a handful of less-heralded names have used football’s biggest stage to introduce themselves to a global audience. We’re taking a closer look at some of the players to watch so far in this summer’s big tournament!

Lionel Messi Still Refuses To Slow Down

Every tournament seems to generate a fresh debate about whether Lionel Messi can continue producing at the highest level. Every edition also seems to provide another reminder that writing him off remains a dangerous game.

Argentina’s captain rolled back the years with a devastating display against Algeria, helping the defending champions begin their campaign in emphatic fashion. The goals inevitably grabbed the headlines, but it was the complete performance that stood out most. Even approaching his 39th birthday, Messi remains capable of controlling matches in a way few players in football history ever have. He followed up his hat-trick against Algeria with another two goals against Austria, even missing a penalty to show the world he is still human.

Kylian Mbappe Looks Ready To Dominate

France arrived in North America among the favourites and Mbappe wasted little time demonstrating why.

Senegal frustrated Didier Deschamps’ side for long periods before the French captain exploded into life. Once Mbappe found space, the contest changed instantly. His pace, movement and finishing remain almost impossible to contain when he reaches top gear. Mbappe added another two goals against Iraq, putting him at 4 goals so far in the tournament.

If France are to go all the way, there is every chance their superstar forward will be at the centre of it.

Harry Kane Leading From The Front

England’s captain entered the tournament carrying familiar expectations and responded in familiar fashion.

His two-goal display against Croatia underlined how important he remains to Thomas Tuchel’s plans, but Kane’s contribution extended far beyond the scoresheet. His movement, link-up play and ability to drag defenders out of position helped England control large stretches of a difficult opening fixture.

For all the emerging talent around him, Kane remains England’s reference point. Despite missing a big chance in their second match of the tournament, a disappointing 0-0 against Ghana, Kane has arrived and he is ready to make the difference for the Three Lions.

Vozinha’s Fairytale Moment

Not every tournament story belongs to football’s biggest stars.

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha became one of the faces of the opening week after producing a remarkable performance against Spain. The 40-year-old frustrated one of the tournament favourites with a series of outstanding saves in their opener and helped his country secure one of the most memorable results in its history.

Despite his second match being a less impressive display, moments like that opening match are part of what makes this tournament special.

The Breakout Names

Several younger players have also used the opening round to announce themselves.

Sweden midfielder Yasin Ayari was instrumental in his side’s emphatic victory over Tunisia, while South Korea’s Hwang In-beom delivered one of the most influential midfield performances of the opening week against Czechia. Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi also caught the eye during the Atlas Lions’ impressive draw with Brazil, showing a composure that belied his age against some of the world’s most accomplished players.

Plenty More To Come

The opening weeks have belonged to the stars and the surprise packages in equal measure. History suggests new heroes will emerge, reputations will be transformed and unexpected stories will continue to unfold over the coming weeks.

Last Updated: 25.06.2026