Not only is it a race for teams, the 2026 World Cup is also becoming a stage for the biggest football stars in the world. I am particularly impressed with Lionel Messi when the Argentine captain had a performance that made fans take their hats off.
In the 3-0 victory over Algeria, the 38-year-old superstar scored a classy hat-trick, proving that time seemed not to be able to fade his talent. Messi's delicate handling, positioning ability and scoring instinct continued to help Argentina become one of the top candidates for the championship.
Not wanting to be outdone, Kylian Mbappe also shone brightly in France's victory over Senegal. This striker's double not only helped Les Bleus have a favorable start but also put Mbappe ahead of Olivier Giroud to become the top scorer in French national team history.
At the age of 27, the Real Madrid star is entering the peak of his career and is still expected to be a factor that makes a difference in this year's tournament.
Besides, Erling Haaland has also made his mark in the Norwegian jersey. The appearance of the striker with the most terrifying scoring ability in the world helps the Northern European team receive more attention than ever before. The race between Messi, Mbappe, Haaland and many other top strikers promises to become one of the most attractive highlights of the 2026 World Cup.
However, the World Cup is always famous for surprises. Teams that are underestimated have proven that they did not come to North America just to contribute enough troops.
Spain, despite possessing a quality squad, was still powerless to penetrate Cabo Verde's defense and accepted a 0-0 draw. Similarly, the Belgian team faced many difficulties against a disciplined Egypt and could only leave the field with a 1-1 draw. Results such as the Netherlands being held to a 2-2 draw by Japan or the 2-2 draw between Iran and New Zealand further showed the unpredictability of the tournament.
The focus in the coming days will continue to be on the pivotal matches in the group stage. I am particularly looking forward to the match between co-host Mexico and the leading representative of Asian football, South Korea.
With home advantage, Mexico will definitely create great pressure, but the persistent fighting spirit of the Korean players promises to bring a match full of emotions.
Besides, Ghana will face Panama in a match predicted to be fast and physically strong.
Uzbekistan also faces a big challenge when facing Colombia, a team always famous for its technical and explosive playing style. Global audiences are also waiting for the intellectual battle between the Czech Republic and South Africa, as well as the evenly matched confrontation between Switzerland and Bosnia & Herzegovina.
Looking further, the current dramatic group stage matches are only the opening chapter for the journey to the final on July 20th at MetLife Stadium.
