Top 10 Players Left in the 2026 World Cup: From Messi to Haaland
The tournament has narrowed down from 48 teams to just eight. Each squad still in the hunt believes it can claim the trophy, with heavyweights like France, Argentina, England, Spain, and Morocco looking particularly strong. But which players stand out as potential heroes as the competition moves toward its July 19 conclusion?
10. Yassine Bounou, Morocco
In a field full of great goalkeepers including Argentina's Emi Martinez, England's Jordan Pickford, Spain's Unai Simon, and France's Mike Maignan, Bounou shines because of his penalty-saving prowess. Born in Canada, he made a huge impact against the Netherlands, stopping two penalties, one while standing upright. When every shot counts, having a keeper like him at the back is invaluable.
9. Achraf Hakimi, Morocco
Despite legal troubles casting a shadow, Hakimi remains one of the best right backs globally. Playing for PSG and Morocco, he contributes offensively and defensively. Though inconsistent during this World Cup, he has three goal contributions in five games. His role in Morocco’s attack alongside Brahim Diaz makes him a tough opponent to mark.
8. Ismael Saibari, Morocco
A rising star in this tournament, Saibari leads Morocco in goals with three in five matches. Recently joining Bayern Munich, he’s showcased his attacking skills usually from midfield but is now Morocco’s most dangerous forward. Although his fitness for the quarterfinals is uncertain after leaving the last match early, he remains a key threat for the Atlas Lions.
7. Lamine Yamal, Spain
The 18-year-old was expected to burst onto the scene in this World Cup. While he’s scored only once so far, Yamal is Spain’s most dynamic player, known for his quick movements that create space for shots and crosses. We think he’ll start making a bigger impact as Spain pushes deeper into the knockout rounds.
6. Michael Olise, France
Olise has been a creative force for France, racking up five assists in five matches. Coming off an impressive season with Bayern Munich, his left foot crafts chances along the right flank with precision and fire. Eligible for multiple countries, he chose France and has breathed life into their attack, consistently creating opportunities.
5. Jude Bellingham, England
Bellingham has shown himself to be clutch time performer, scoring four goals and assisting once in five games. Against Mexico, his quick double helped England turn the tide. Even if his club form dipped a bit, at 23, he's arguably the world’s finest midfielder right now. Betting against him wouldn’t be wise.
4. Harry Kane, England
Kane may not have Haaland’s goal-scoring numbers but offers more in build-up play. He drops deep to link attacks and set teammates up. With six goals and two assists, Kane almost single-handedly dragged England through tough moments, including key goals against DR Congo and Mexico. He remains central to England’s hopes this World Cup.
3. Erling Haaland, Norway
Questions about Haaland’s first World Cup were silenced by seven goals that propelled Norway to an unexpected quarterfinal. Often misjudged as a pure finisher, he also links play well. His speed, height, and leap make him a nightmare inside the box. Norway might lack depth, but Haaland’s scoring alone keeps their dream alive.
2. Kylian Mbappe, France
Four years after losing the final to Messi, Mbappe ranks just behind the Argentine star this time. With seven goals and two assists, he’s arguably the tournament’s most productive player. Despite a tough game against Paraguay, he scored from the spot and constantly threatens defenses with his pace and shooting. His partnership with Olise has been especially lethal.
1. Lionel Messi, Argentina
At 39, Messi is in the twilight of his career but still outshines many younger players. Argentina’s path hasn’t been smooth, but Messi’s performances have been key to reaching the quarterfinals. Scoring in every game, he holds the longest scoring streak in World Cup history with eight consecutive matches finding the net. Whether playing centrally or drifting wide, Messi continues to create chances and dominate the spotlight.
