The FIFA World Cup 2026 is developing a clear identity after 44 matches, with 128 goals averaging almost three per game. Goalkeepers have produced remarkable moments, including Eloy Room's 15 saves for Curacao and Alireza Beiranvand's heroic performance for Iran.
Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Erling Haaland all produced braces in the second round, while Cristiano Ronaldo became the first player to score in six different World Cups.
Europe's traditional powers responded strongly, with Spain, Portugal, and Germany securing qualification. African nations showed they are no longer just participating, with Egypt, Morocco, and Cape Verde producing impressive results.
The Blue Sharks, Cape Verde's national team, stunned Spain with a 0-0 draw and held Uruguay 2-2, putting them on the verge of producing one of the most remarkable qualification stories in World Cup history.
