A total of 24 matches and several goals later, today marks the start of the second round of this World Cup group stage.
It’s only been a week since the World Cup began, and today the second round of the group stage already gets underway. It’s time to take stock of what we’ve seen so far and put some names on the table.
Which teams have played the best?
This World Cup featured several title contenders, but after the opening round, teams like England, Argentina and France have shown that they are very serious about winning this World Cup.
What have been the disappointments of the round?
Among the teams that have disappointed so far, several big sides make the list. Without a doubt, the one at the top is Spain, who were unable to do better than a goalless draw against Cape Verde.
Cristiano’s Portugal also disappointed in their debut against Congo, and Brazil did the same, although against Morocco the challenge was greater than it was for Spain and Portugal.
Who has been the breakout player?
Without a doubt, there is one name that stands out above the rest. Vozinha, Cape Verde’s goalkeeper, has seen his life change radically after his match against Spain.
The best match so far
Tastes differ, but after the opening round and 24 matches played, England vs Croatia was without a doubt one of the best matches, if not the best, of this World Cup so far.
Chances for both teams, the goalkeepers taking center stage, and six goals — you can’t ask for much more.
Has the surprise team been…?
📸 Dean Mouhtaropoulos – 2026 Getty Images
Not because they are playing at home, but because they have earned it on the pitch, the United States have so far been the team that has surprised the most, despite not being among the clear title favorites.
The best player of the World Cup so far
The years go by, the World Cups come and go, and Leo Messi is still there. He certainly could not have had a better start to this World Cup. Three goals against Algeria, an Argentina win, and equalling Klose’s record with 16 World Cup goals as the tournament’s all-time top scorer — simply Leo.
The best matches still to come
Starting from the idea that it is unforgivable to miss any match, it is true that you should keep a particularly close eye on the following games.
- Brazil-Haiti
- Netherlands-Sweden
- Spain-Saudi Arabia
- Argentina-Austria
- France-Iraq
- Norway-Senegal
- Portugal-Uzbekistan
- England-Ghana
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.
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