The biggest stars of World Cup 2026 so far

The World Cup always promises to provide a showcase for the world’s best talent to shine, and so far the 2026 tournament has proven to be no different. 

The likes of Lionel Messi, Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland have already shone for their respective nations, as well as several other stars. Here’s who has stood out at the tournament so far… 

Lionel Messi 

The Argentinian legend had some doubters going into the tournament. At 38 and playing in the MLS in the USA, there was uncertainty whether he could still deliver on the biggest stage. But he quickly silenced those doubters with a superb hat-trick in his side’s opening game against Algeria as Argentina got off to the perfect start in their defence of the World Cup crown. 

Messi could cap off his career in the perfect way by winning another World Cup and perhaps even individual honours, such as the player of the tournament or golden boot. 

There are a host of other individual prizes up for grabs too at the World Cup, such as being named in the team of the tournament, the Golden Glove, young player of the tournament and much more. Big prizes can also be won at Spincasino.com, with a host of games available to play. 

Harry Kane 

England boss Thomas Tuchel has opted to build his England side around the Bayern Munich striker and with good reason. The 32-year-old scored a staggering 61 goals for his club this season and got his World Cup off to a dream start by scoring twice in England’s 4-2 win over Croatia. 

Kylian Mbappe 

Mbappe headed into this World Cup off the back of a tough season with Real Madrid, having been subjected to significant criticism by supporters. But he once again looks set to thrive at the World Cup, scoring twice in France’s opening game win over Senegal to take his total goal tally in World Cups to a ridiculous 14 at the age of 27. 

Vozinha 

The Cape Verde goalkeeper shot to international fame by keeping European champions Spain from scoring in his side’s shock 0-0 draw. 

Elijah Just 

The Motherwell winger scored twice as Australia surprised many by beating Turkey 2-0 in their first game of the tournament.  

Folarin Balogun 

The Monaco man had to deal with the pressure of delivering for one of the host nations USA, but certainly did that by bagging a brace in their victory over Paraguay. 

Erling Haaland 

Unsurprisingly, the prolific Manchester City striker scored twice in his first ever World Cup game to help Norway prevail against Iraq. 

Yasin Ayari 

Yet another player who started his tournament with a brace as Sweden thrashed Tunisia 5-1, thanks in part to the Brighton man’s contribution.