Top 10 Players Still in the 2026 World Cup
The World Cup has narrowed its field dramatically, shrinking from 48 teams to just eight as the tournament heads toward its climax on July 19. Each surviving team believes it can claim the trophy, but a few favorites stand out: France, Argentina, England, Spain, and Morocco all have squads that seem ready to wear down their opponents.
While team strength is clear, the spotlight also falls on individual players who might carry their nations to glory in these final rounds.
10. Yassine Bounou, Morocco
Matches played: 5 | Goals: 8 | Assists: 0
Among goalkeepers like Argentina's Emi Martinez and France's Mike Maignan, Bounou emerges as the standout for his shot-stopping skills, especially in penalty shootouts. His calm under pressure was clear when he saved two penalties against the Netherlands, one while standing upright. In tight knockout matches, having a goalkeeper who can be trusted at the spot is invaluable, and Bounou fits that role perfectly.
9. Achraf Hakimi, Morocco
Matches played: 5 | Goals: 1 | Assists: 2
Hakimi, Morocco’s captain, has faced serious legal issues with a rape charge pending, raising questions about his participation. On the pitch, he's regarded as one of the best right backs globally, contributing on both offense and defense. Though inconsistent during this World Cup compared to his club form at PSG, he remains a key threat alongside Brahim Diaz. The controversy around him casts a shadow, but assuming he plays, his talent is undeniable.
8. Ismael Saibari, Morocco
Matches played: 5 | Goals: 3 | Assists: 0
Saibari has been one of the tournament’s breakout stars, leading Morocco's scoring charts so far. Now with Bayern Munich, he plays mainly as an attacking midfielder but has taken on a striking role for Morocco. Despite an injury scare in the Round of 16, he stands as the Atlas Lions' main offensive weapon.
7. Lamine Yamal, Spain
Matches played: 5 | Goals: 1 | Assists: 0
At just 18, Yamal is Spain's brightest young talent. Expected to shine at this World Cup, he has yet to fully break out but shows flashes of brilliance with his movement and creativity. Defenders find him hard to contain, and we think his impact will increase in the upcoming rounds.
6. Michael Olise, France
Matches played: 5 | Goals: 0 | Assists: 5
Olise has brought flair and vision to France’s attack, adding to an already dangerous lineup. With five assists—more than anyone else in the tournament—his left foot delivers precision crosses and passes. Eligible for several national teams, he’s chosen France and has become a crucial playmaker for Didier Deschamps’ side.
5. Jude Bellingham, England
Matches played: 5 | Goals: 4 | Assists: 1
Bellingham shines in clutch moments. Against Mexico, he scored twice in quick succession to spark England’s comeback. His performances echo those from the recent European Championships, where his last-minute bicycle kick sealed a win. Even if his club form dipped slightly, he remains one of the world’s top midfielders.
4. Harry Kane, England
Matches played: 5 | Goals: 6 | Assists: 2
While Haaland may edge him in goals, Kane’s all-around game sets him apart. Operating like a '9.5', Kane drops deep to link play and create chances for others. His six goals and two assists highlight his dual threat. He almost carried England single-handedly in their Round of 32 comeback and remains a leader capable of pushing England further.
3. Erling Haaland, Norway
Matches played: 5 | Goals: 7 | Assists: 0
Questions about Haaland's first World Cup performance were silenced by his seven goals, powering Norway to a historic quarterfinal berth. Although sometimes seen as just a pure finisher, he possesses technical skill to involve teammates. His speed, height, and leap make him a nightmare in front of goal. Norway lacks depth compared to other quarterfinalists, but Haaland’s scoring might take them even further.
2. Kylian Mbappe, France
Matches played: 5 | Goals: 7 | Assists: 2
Four years after losing a World Cup final to Messi, Mbappe ranks second behind the Argentine in this tournament’s scoring. He’s arguably been the competition’s most effective player overall, creating more goals than anyone else. Even in a tough match against Paraguay, he scored a penalty. His speed and striking ability terrorize defenses, often connecting with Michael Olise’s clever touches. Mbappe looks set to dazzle in the knockout rounds.
1. Lionel Messi, Argentina
Matches played: 5 | Goals: 8 | Assists: 0
At 39, Messi remains in rare form, still outperforming most players despite age. Argentina hasn’t dominated as expected, struggling against teams like Cape Verde and Egypt, but Messi’s consistent scoring kept them alive. He’s scored in every game so far, holding the longest scoring streak in World Cup history with eight consecutive matches. Whether playing centrally or wide, his chance creation continues to influence games profoundly.
