World Cup 2026’s Surprise Stars: The Best Players From the Opening Rounds
The early stages of World Cup 2026 across Canada, the United States and Mexico have thrown up some remarkable performances — and not necessarily from the household names. According to The Guardian, a clutch of under-the-radar players have made the strongest cases for a place in the tournament’s team of the tournament so far.
The Goalkeeper Who Stopped Spain
The most talked-about story of the opening rounds has been Haiti’s goalkeeper, Josimar, who made seven saves to hold Spain — one of the pre-tournament favourites — to a goalless draw. The 40-year-old, whose previous employers include Portugal’s Gil Vicente, has become a global social media phenomenon. So significant was his performance that US House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries intervened to have visa fees and a $15,000 bond waived so Josimar’s mother could travel to watch her son.
Coufal’s Long Throw Leaves West Ham Wincing
Vladimir Coufal, the 33-year-old Czech Republic wing-back now at Hoffenheim but fondly remembered in England for his time at West Ham, has been a consistent outlet for his side. His long throws created the best chances — and the goal — against South Korea, a reminder of the quality the Hammers allowed to leave.
Mbemba Puts Ronaldo in His Pocket
DR Congo defender Chancel Mbemba, who has played in England for Newcastle United and has also represented Marseille and Lille, produced one of the defensive performances of the tournament against Portugal. Despite Cristiano Ronaldo making 47 attempts to receive the ball, Mbemba and his teammates restricted him to just 10 touches. Congo secured their first-ever World Cup finals point in the process.
Morocco’s Teenage Sensation
Perhaps the most exciting emerging talent is Morocco’s Yamal Bouaddi, an 18-year-old Lille midfielder who only declared for the Atlas Lions on 15 May. The France-born player has shone against both Brazil and Scotland, prompting captain Achraf Hakimi to call it “a masterclass.” A host of elite clubs are reportedly monitoring him closely.
Ayari Shines for Sweden
Brighton’s Amine Ayari scored twice as Sweden beat Tunisia in their opener, replicating the form he showed early in the Premier League season before injury struck. He chose not to celebrate, acknowledging his father’s Tunisian roots.
For UK bettors keeping tabs on who’s making waves, our World Cup 2026 hub has the latest analysis, while you can track every result on our live standings page.