Argentina captain, Lionel Messi, Iran full-back Ramin Rezaeian and Canada defender Derek Cornelius have been named the standout performers in FIFA’s latest Power Rankings after the first round of matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Released on Thursday and powered by Aramco, the rankings use advanced data analysis to evaluate players’ impact in three key areas, attacking, creativity and defending.
Messi led the attacking category after producing a hat-trick in Argentina’s 3-0 win over Algeria.
Rezaeian topped the creativity rankings following a strong display in Iran’s 2-2 draw against New Zealand, while Cornelius emerged as the highest-rated defender after helping Canada secure victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina.
According to FIFA, “Messi accounted for 60% of Argentina’s attempts at goal, every shot they had on target and all three of their goals. La Albiceleste’s three successful strikes came from 1.58 expected goals (xG), highlighting the efficiency of Messi’s finishing.
“The Inter Miami star’s influence extended well beyond the penalty area, too. He received possession 23 times between Algeria’s midfield and defensive lines and completed 12 line breaks, repeatedly helping Argentina transform possession into danger.”
FIFA explained that the rankings go beyond traditional statistics such as goals and assists, incorporating actions that help create opportunities, advance attacking moves and prevent opposition scoring chances.
The world football governing body noted that the rankings will continue to monitor player performances and influence as the tournament progresses across Canada, Mexico and the United States.
Top 10 FIFA Power Rankings after the opening round
Attacking
Lionel Messi (Argentina) – 8.1
Elijah Just (New Zealand) – 7.9
Kylian Mbappe (France) – 7.5
Yasin Ayari (Sweden) – 7.5
Harry Kane (England) – 7.2
Erling Haaland (Norway) – 7.0
Amad Diallo (Côte d’Ivoire) – 7.0
Alexander Isak (Sweden) – 7.0
Vinicius Junior (Brazil) – 7.0
Luis Diaz (Colombia) – 6.9
Creativity
Ramin Rezaeian (Iran) – 8.2
Michael Olise (France) – 7.4
Florian Wirtz (Germany) – 7.3
Lee Kang-in (South Korea) – 7.3
Julio Enciso (Paraguay) – 7.3
Ryan Gravenberch (Netherlands) – 7.3
Bukayo Saka (England) – 7.2
Amad Diallo (Côte d’Ivoire) – 7.2
Brahim Diaz (Morocco) – 7.2
Mohamed Salah (Egypt) – 7.2
Defending
Derek Cornelius (Canada) – 7.3
Nikola Katic (Bosnia and Herzegovina) – 7.1
Tarik Muharemovic (Bosnia and Herzegovina) – 7.1
Xavier Schlager (Austria) – 7.0
Tyler Adams (United States) – 6.9
Sidny Lopes Cabral (Cabo Verde) – 6.7
Amar Dedic (Bosnia and Herzegovina) – 6.6
Jesus Gallardo (Mexico) – 6.6
Willy Semedo (Cabo Verde) – 6.6
