- Matchday 2 witnessed Lionel Messi continue his record-breaking campaign.
- Group H remains wide open with Spain, Uruguay, Cape Verde & Saudi Arabia all still capable of qualifying.
- This is the second consecutive Matchday that Mbappe has failed to make his name.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 has entered its final round of group-stage fixtures after Colombia edged past DR Congo in a tense Group K encounter. Matchday 2 witnessed Lionel Messi continue his record-breaking campaign, Cristiano Ronaldo silence his critics with a brilliant display, and several other nations take a huge step towards the knockout stages.
The week also delivered unforgettable moments away from the action, from Norway's famous Viking clap celebrations to DR Congo superfan Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, popularly known as "Lumumba Vea", once again capturing the hearts of football fans worldwide with his heart-filled support.
From exciting goals to heroic defensive displays, from dominant victories to nervy draws, Matchday 2 had everything football lovers could ask for.
As the tournament heads into its decisive group-stage fixtures, teams like Argentina, France and Portugal look firmly in control of their destiny. However, Group H remains wide open with Spain, Uruguay, Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia all still capable of either qualifying or crashing out.
After another thrilling week of footballing action, TDJ has selected its Team of the Week.
Team Of The Week (4-4-2)
Note: This selection is according to TDJ team.
Goalkeeper
Patrick Beach (Australia)
The Australian shot-stopper produced a series of crucial saves to help the Socceroos register a vital 2-0 victory over Turkey. Beach's commanding presence between the sticks earned him one of the highest ratings of the week.
Defenders
RB: Daniel Muñoz (Colombia)
The Colombian full-back was exceptional throughout the match against DR Congo. Constantly charging forward from defence, Muñoz capped off his brilliant display with the winning goal in the 76th minute.
RCB: Rúben Dias (Portugal)
Returning from injury, Dias looked strong. The Portuguese defender marshalled the backline superbly and played a crucial role in Portugal's emphatic 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan.
LCB: Joško Gvardiol (Croatia)
Croatia's defensive leader was rock solid against Panama. Gvardiol read the game brilliantly and repeatedly shut down attacks from the left side, helping his side secure all three points.
LB: Nuno Mendes (Portugal)
One of the finest left-backs in world football today, Mendes delivered another masterclass. He scored a stunning free-kick and constantly stretched the opposition with his attacking runs and precise deliveries into the box.
Midfielders
RM: Lionel Messi (Argentina)
The Argentine magician once again showcased why he remains one of football's greatest players. Messi scored, created chances and dictated the game as Argentina comfortably defeated Austria 2-0.
RCM: Bruno Fernandes (Portugal)
Fernandes was the heartbeat of Portugal's midfield. The Manchester United star controlled possession, created opportunities and provided a brilliant assist for Cristiano Ronaldo during the rout of Uzbekistan.
LCM: Crysencio Summerville (Netherlands)
The Dutch midfielder added creativity and energy to the Netherlands setup. Summerville constantly troubled Sweden's defenders and played a major role in his team's dominant display.
LM: Mohamed Salah (Egypt)
The Egyptian star delivered when his team needed him most. Salah scored a brilliant goal and created several dangerous opportunities as the Pharaohs completed an impressive comeback victory over New Zealand.
Forwards
RS: Erling Haaland (Norway)
The Norwegian goal machine was simply unstoppable against Iraq. Haaland's clinical finishing resulted in a wonderful brace and once again highlighted why he remains one of the deadliest strikers in world football.
LS: Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
Cristiano Ronaldo's responded well to his critics. The Portuguese legend scored twice in Portugal's 5-0 demolition of Uzbekistan and rolled back the years with his movement, positioning and clinical finishing inside the penalty area. At 41, Ronaldo once again proved that his class is permanent.
Stars Who Miss Out
Kylian Mbappe (France)
Despite scoring a brace for France, Mbappe narrowly misses out on TDJ's Team of the Week. While his goals were important, the French superstar was unable to impose himself on the game in the manner fans have come to expect. This is the second consecutive Matchday that he has failed to make his name.
Harry Kane (England)
England's captain faced a frustrating outing against Ghana. Kane struggled to find his usual sharpness in front of goal and wasted several opportunities as the Three Lions were held to a shock goalless draw.