Mexico hadn’t won all three group stage games at a World Cup since … well, ever. Not in 1970. Not in 1986. Not even in the years they had Hugo Sanchez or Cuauhtemoc Blanco. But this year, with Julian Quinones leading the line, they finally pulled it off.
Quinones, the same guy who just won the Saudi Pro League golden boot with 33 goals for Al Qadsiah, scored twice in the group phase. His first came on opening day against South Africa — the very first goal of this expanded 2026 tournament. His second sealed the deal against Czechia. Mexico now faces Ecuador in Mexico City with a chance to win just their second knockout match in history. The first? 1986, also at home.
Bono Still Stopping Everything
Morocco’s run to the semifinals in 2022 wasn’t a fluke, and the guy in goal is a big reason why. Bono moved from Sevilla to Al Hilal after that tournament, and if anything, he’s gotten even better. Against Brazil in the group stage, he made four saves to secure a draw. The current CAF Goalkeeper of the Year now faces the Netherlands in Monterrey. Morocco’s hopes basically rest on his hands.
Kessie Delivers When It Matters
Franck Kessie has a habit of showing up in big moments. The Al Ahli midfielder did it again against Germany in Toronto, scoring the opener to give Ivory Coast an unexpected lead. They ended up losing on a late Deniz Undav goal, but Kessie’s performance reminded everyone why he’s the captain. Next up is Norway in Arlington, and you can bet Kessie will be the guy they look to when things get tight.
He’s already dragged Ivory Coast through tougher spots than this.
Mahrez Woke Up Just in Time
Algeria was staring at elimination after losing to Argentina and falling behind Jordan in their second group match. Then Riyad Mahrez decided he wasn’t done yet. The Al Ahli winger had an assist, six crosses, and 16 forced turnovers in that 2-1 win over Jordan — the kind of stat line that makes you wonder why he started the tournament on the bench. He followed that up with two goals in the 3-3 draw with Austria that pushed Algeria through as one of the best third-place teams. Switzerland is next.
If Mahrez keeps playing like this, Algeria could make some noise.
Ronaldo Still Writing His Story
Cristiano Ronaldo is 41 years old. He’s playing in his sixth World Cup. And he just scored twice against Uzbekistan in a 5-0 win that made everyone shut up about whether he still belongs at this level. The opener made him the first player ever to score at six different World Cups. His overall tournament total is now 10 goals. Portugal faces Croatia in the Round of 32.
Maybe don’t count him out just yet.
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