The 2026 World Cup has been a spectacle of drama, from jaw-dropping upsets to contender flexes. As we revisit The Athletic's ranking of the top 50 players, it's clear that the tournament has been a showcase of individual brilliance and tactical prowess. The round of 32 delivered, and now it's time to analyze the winners and losers from the group stage.
Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Vinicius Junior dominated from the start, but the landscape has shifted. Messi's iconic moment against Cape Verde, where he became the first man to score 20 World Cup goals, was a testament to his enduring greatness. Mbappe's otherworldly speed and movement against Sweden showcased his status as one of the most thrillingly devastating sights in football. Meanwhile, Michael Olise's two assists for France against Sweden were jaw-droppingly good, and his scissor kick came within the width of a post of giving him the goal of the tournament.
Harry Kane found his superstar form when England needed it most against DR Congo, passing Pele in the all-time World Cup scoring chart. Achraf Hakimi's best football at this World Cup has been a highlight, bringing his A-game to Morocco's attacking play. Vinicius Junior's constant aggression on the left flank contributed to Brazil's pressure against Japan.
Erling Haaland's vital tap-in against Ivory Coast punctuates a relatively anonymous performance. Ousmane Dembele's reemergence in France's supporting role against Sweden is a credit to his adaptability. Ismael Saibari's nerveless penalty against the Netherlands sent them home, and Bruno Guimaraes' creative heartbeat against Japan was a key factor in Brazil's win.
Mikel Oyarzabal has moulded himself into the ideal 'false nine' for Spain, while Aymeric Laporte's partnership with Pau Cubarsi looks slick and settled. Pedri's fluid passing machine and Dayot Upamecano's formidable centre-back pairing with William Saliba have been integral to their success.
Jude Bellingham's performance against DR Congo was a standout, and Declan Rice's shift to right-back coincided with England getting their act together. Diogo Costa's superb saves against Croatia have been the most impressive of the tournament. Pau Cubarsi's mobility and athleticism complement Laporte, and Folarin Balogun's clinical hub in the USMNT attack is now missing.
Ismaila Sarr's goal against Belgium will remain a tournament highlight, and Julian Quinones' high finish against Ecuador might have been the most impressive of his three goals. Roberto Alvarado's perfectly measured chip into the left channel for Quinones yielded his third World Cup assist. Leandro Trossard's rounded attacking skill set is critical to Belgium's faded side.
Joshua Kimmich's performance against Paraguay was one of Germany's better, but Florian Wirtz's three assists from four World Cup games were still impressive. Luis Diaz's clinical touch seems to have faded, and Yan Diomande has broadly justified the hype surrounding his rise.
Cody Gakpo's emotional moment after scoring days after the loss of his unborn son, Elijah, was a powerful display of resilience. Elliot Anderson's consistent performance at this World Cup has been notable, and Marc Cucurella's clever movement in the final third brings Spain's wide rotations to life.
Youri Tielemans' equaliser against Senegal was a spectacularly brave header, and Bradley Barcola's blistering speed and direct running from the left flank fit well with France's big three. Johan Manzambi's skilful ball carrying count against Algeria was a breakout star of the tournament.
Amad's sublime solo goal against Norway was a highlight, and Davinson Sanchez has marshalled a very effective unit for Colombia. Breel Embolo's leadership and finishing for Switzerland have been superb. Matheus Cunha's speculative, long-range efforts against Japan were not enough to add to his three goals.
Kai Havertz's three goals from his four matches were still impressive, and Malik Tillman's sublime free kick against Bosnia settled the nerves. Pedro Porro's handling of the threat against Marcel Sabitzer and Konrad Laimer was notable, and Lisandro Martinez's passing range and finishing have been key for Argentina.
Gabriel's defensive structure-holding role for Brazil has been crucial, and Stephen Eustaquio's leadership for Canada has been commendable. Anthony Gordon's decisive impact off the bench against DR Congo was notable, and Julio Enciso's link play and pressing for Paraguay have been excellent.
Rayan's consistent danger against Japan was impressive, and Vozinha's calm and auras of calm have been a revelation for Cape Verde. Sidny Lopes Cabral's memorable goal against Argentina was a highlight, and his devilishly whipped free kick had Emiliano Martinez at full stretch.
