The FIFA World Cup 2026 has wasted no time in delivering drama. From Lionel Messi rolling back the years with a stunning hat-trick to fierce debates surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo's impact, the opening week of football's biggest spectacle has already produced unforgettable moments. There have been tears of joy, heartbreaking collapses, surprise packages and underdog stories as the tournament burst into life across North America.

Hosts USA, Mexico and Canada remain unbeaten after their opening fixtures, while traditional powerhouses including Portugal, Brazil and Spain have stumbled out of the blocks. Several rising stars have seized the spotlight, while some of football's biggest names have struggled to leave their mark.

After an action-packed first week, here is TDJ's FIFA World Cup 2026 Team of the Week.

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Team Of The Week (4-3-3)

Note: This is according to TDJ and not based on opinions from the team.

Goalkeeper

Vozinha (Cape Verde)

The veteran shot-stopper was the backbone of Cape Verde's impressive start, producing a series of crucial saves and recording one of the highest save percentages of the opening week. His leadership and composure earned his side a valuable result against World Champions Spain.

Defenders

RB: Joshua Kimmich (Germany)

Kimmich once again proved why he remains one of football's most complete players. Operating from right-back, he grabbed 2 assists and 5 key passes; controlled Germany's tempo with his passing range.

RCB: Diney Borges (Cape Verde)

One of the tournament's surprise performers, Borges helped Cape Verde record a memorable defensive display. He was a key figure in that tournament debut, recording 5 tackles, 2 interceptions, 8 clearances, and 3 blocked shots during the match.

LCB: Harry Souttar (Australia)

Australia's defensive leader was immense during Week 1. Souttar dominated aerial duels, made crucial blocks and marshalled the backline with authority as the Socceroos frustrated their opponents.

LB: Nathaniel Brown (Germany)

The young German full-back enjoyed a breakthrough World Cup week. Brown combined defensive solidity with attacking intent, contributing an assist while maintaining an excellent duel success rate.

Midfielders

RCM: Felix Nmecha (Germany)

Nmecha was Germany's engine in midfield, winning possession repeatedly while also contributing in attack. His balance between creativity and defensive work made him vital. He played 72 minutes during which he scored a goal, with 3/4 shots on target and a 97% passing accuracy. Along with that won 2 tackles and made 2 clearances.

LCM: Yasin Ayari (Sweden)

The Swedish midfielder announced himself on the global stage with a commanding display. Ayari controlled possession, completed a high percentage of passes, and chipped in with a goal contribution.

CAM: Jude Bellingham (England)

Bellingham has looked every bit the superstar. The England midfielder delivered goals, assists and relentless energy, driving attacks while constantly influencing games in the final third.

Forwards

RW: Lionel Messi (Argentina)

A World Cup hat-trick at the age of 39 reminded the world why Messi remains one of football's greatest players. His three-goal masterclass, combined with his playmaking brilliance, made him an automatic selection.

ST: Erling Haaland (Norway)

Haaland started his first World Cup campaign devastatingly. The Norwegian striker's goals, movement, and physical dominance helped fire Norway into contention and underlined his status as one of the tournament's biggest threats.

LW: Luis Diaz (Colombia)

Few attackers were as electric as Diaz in Week 1. The Colombian winger tormented defenders with his pace and direct running, contributing goals and creating opportunities throughout the opening round. His one goal and an assist, added with his influence the entire game, put him here over Mbappe.

Stars Who Miss Out

Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)

Despite generating headlines, Ronaldo's performances failed to match the standards set by the forwards selected. Portugal's underwhelming start and the lack of decisive attacking output saw him miss out. He registered 0 assists, 0 goals and only 5 touches inside the opponent’s box.

Kylian Mbappe (France)

Mbappe showed flashes of his quality but was unable to deliver the game-changing numbers expected from one of the tournament favourites. Although he scored a brace, by his high standards, he should have been more influential in the game.

Lamine Yamal (Spain)

The teenage sensation displayed moments of brilliance after coming to the pitch as a substitute, yet Spain's inconsistent performances and limited end product prevented him from securing a place in the team.

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Vinicius Junior (Brazil)

Brazil's difficult start is reflected in Vinicius' performances. While he remained a constant threat and scored a goal for his side, Brazil’s overall performance and Vinicius's inability to help his team win failed to earn him a spot in the starting XI.

Harry Kane (England)

It was a difficult selection with both Harry Kane and Haaland scoring a brace for their sides. Haaland got the better hand cause he carried his team towards a huge victory. Haaland also pressed higher and had 20 touches.

Week 1 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 has already delivered everything fans could have hoped for. Messi's brilliance, Haaland's ruthless finishing and Germany's collective dominance are reflected heavily in TDJ's Team of the Week, while several common names will be eager to respond in the coming matches. The opening week is an indication that the road to World Cup glory promises plenty more surprises.