Messi, Mbappé and Balogun Shine in 2026 World Cup Round 1 Best XI

The opening group matches of the 2026 World Cup were packed with drama and top performances. Argentina’s Lionel Messi delivered a record-breaking hat-trick against Algeria, while France’s Kylian Mbappé powered his side with two stunning strikes. On the back line, veteran goalkeeper Vozinha made history for Cape Verde with a clean sheet against Spain. Germany’s Nathaniel Brown and Bosnia’s Nikola Katić stood out with crucial goals and defensive masterclasses. Midfield stars included Sweden’s Yasin Ayari, who netted two sumptuous strikes, Iran’s Ramin Rezaeian with a goal and an assist, and South Korea’s Hwang In-beom, whose silky control earned him comparisons to the greats. In attack, Folarin Balogun announced himself with a brace for the USA and Erling Haaland marked his debut with a double for Norway. These eleven performers form the Best XI of Round 1.

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