World Cup 2026 Matchday 2 Best XI: Messi Leads as Ronaldo, Mbappé and Haaland Miss Out

As matchday two concluded, the World Cup saw legends eclipsed by unexpected heroes. Lionel Messi led the lineup with a historic brace against Austria and became the tournament’s all-time top scorer. In goal, Eloy Room delivered a masterclass for Curacao with 15 saves to earn a first-ever World Cup point. At centre-back, Alexander Freeman scored a vital header and Shoja Khalilzadeh anchored Iran with 14 clearances. Nuno Mendes stood out for Portugal with a thunderous free kick. Denzel Dumfries terrorized defences on the right flank. Bruno Fernandes recovered from a slow start to control midfield and supply key passes. The attack featured Mohamed Salah’s winning goal and assist for Egypt. Ayase Ueda’s brace helped Japan demolish Tunisia. Mikel Oyarzabal bounced back with a goal and assist, while Jonathan David’s hat-trick powered Canada to a historic win.

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