FLASH NEWS
The best lineup of the first round of the World Cup is published, surprises and big names
2026-06-18 22:10:51 / SPORT
The 2026 World Cup is back, and with it the lineup of the week after the first round.
The first matches brought spectacular goals, quick actions and impressive individual performances.
Based on Sofascore's ratings, the best formation of the week has been selected in the 4-3-3 scheme, while the player of the round award went without question to Lionel Messi.
Player of the round: Messi leads Argentina
Lionel Messi started the World Cup in style, scoring a hat-trick in Argentina's 3-0 win over Algeria and earning the maximum score of 10 from Sofascore.
The attack that made the difference
Alongside Messi in the offensive department are two players who decided their teams' matches.
Folarin Balogun scored twice in the USA's 4-1 triumph over Paraguay.
The American striker was consistently dangerous, with five shots on goal and a performance that earned him a 9.
On the other hand, Elijah Just shone for New Zealand in the 2-2 draw with Iran. He scored both of his team's goals and also contributed defensively with several ball recoveries.
The Messi-Balogun-Just trio combined goals, intensity and maximum efficiency in front of goal.
Midfield of the week
Pedri was Spain's conductor in a goalless draw with Cape Verde. The midfielder completed 86 passes, created five chances and dominated the game with his usual control in the middle of the pitch.
Alongside him, Hwang In-beom led South Korea to a 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic with a goal and an assist. He was crucial in both the playmaking and attacking phases.
The third place in midfield is occupied by Yasin Ayari, who scored twice in Sweden's convincing 5-1 victory over Tunisia. The Swedish midfielder stood out with his energy and intelligent movements in the area.
Defense of the week
There were solid performances from several players in defence, while right winger Richie Laryea was one of the best in Canada's 1-1 draw with Bosnia and Herzegovina. He won most of the duels, made several crucial saves and even hit the post.
Goalkeeper Vozinha, the hero of Cape Verde
Goalkeeper Vozinha earned his place in the lineup thanks to his outstanding performance against Spain.
In the 0-0 draw he made seven saves, most from close range, keeping the goal intact against one of the strongest attacks of the tournament.
His performance quickly went viral and was one of the most talked-about moments of the first round of the 2026 World Cup.
Happening now...
Attacks on Dumani and Berisha's silence on Ilir Shtufi
Nga Bato Kosova
ideas
The rise and fall of comrade Edi
Nga Demush Shasha
The Alliance of Seals and Towers, facing the New Republic
Nga Azgan Haklaj
The beginning of the end of power in Albania...
Nga Veton Surroi
top
Alfa recipes
TRENDING 
services
- POLICE129
- STREET POLICE126
- AMBULANCE112
- FIREFIGHTER128