From surprise packages to early exits, the group stage has already provided plenty of unforgettable moments. Here are some of the biggest stories from the 2026 World Cup so far.
Player of the group stage: Lionel Messi
The Argentinean superstar has already set this World Cup alight. With a staggering six goals in three appearances, Messi made himself the official all-time Fifa World Cup top-goalscorer, with a total of 19 goals during seven World Cup campaigns. Messi also became the first ever player to score in seven consecutive World Cup’s.
With a hat-trick in the opening fixture against Algeria, a brace against Austria and a magic free-kick to seal the group stage off against Jordan. Messi has been a monumental figure once again in Argentina’s hunt for back-to-back World Cup trophies.
Biggest disappointment: Turkey
One of the tournament’s “Dark Horses” suffered an early exit home after a disastrous group stage campaign. Back-to-back defeats to Australia and Paraguay sent Turkey home premature, failing to score in both fixtures. A consolation win over host nation USA wasn’t enough to send Turkey through to the knockout stages.
A World Cup to forget for wonderkid Arda Guler and Turkey.
Surprise package: Cape Verde
Cape Verde have been standout performers during the World Cup so far. Defying the odds, the Island Nation have reached the knockout stages staying undefeated whilst taking points off both Spain and Uruguay. Cape Verde also achieved two clean sheets during the group stage period.
Goalkeeper Vozinha has made the headlines after his remarkable performance against Spain in the opening fixture. He now faces reigning champions Argentina in the round of 32 on Friday evening. Will the 40-year-old stopper be able to repeat his historic achievement against Argentina’s attacking talent?
Early front-runners: France
Les Bleus have started their World Cup campaign strongly. Wins over Senegal, Iraq and Norway left France with nine points out of nine and a perfect start to complete their group stage. With 10 goals scored in three games and superstars Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise and many more in outstanding form. France have established themselves as a major threat to be at the MetLife Stadium on July 19th for the final, hoping to add a third World Cup to their collection.