World Cup debutants shine in opening round

Some of the most impressive individual performances in the opening round of group fixtures at the FIFA World Cup have come from players making their tournament debuts. From veteran goalkeepers to teenage sensations, these debutants have made significant impacts on the pitch.

Vozinha's heroics for Cabo Verde

At 40 years old, Vozinha proved that World Cup dreams can come true. In Cabo Verde's first-ever match at the tournament, the goalkeeper made seven saves to help his side earn a heroic 0-0 draw against Spain. His performance made him one of the stars of the opening matches, winning hearts not only across Cabo Verde's ten islands but around the world.

Haaland's quick start for Norway

Erling Haaland wasted no time opening his World Cup account. In Norway's 4-1 win against Iraq, he scored in the 29th minute, muscling through the penalty area to meet an Antonio Nusa cross. He doubled his tally by pressing high and capitalizing on a goalkeeping error, showcasing why he is one of the world's deadliest goalscorers.

Diomande dazzles for Côte d'Ivoire

Nineteen-year-old winger Ousmane Diomande justified huge expectations in Côte d'Ivoire's 1-0 win against Ecuador. He created five chances and completed four successful dribbles, earning Player of the Match honors. His pace and technique caused constant problems for an Ecuador defense that had conceded just five goals in 18 CONMEBOL qualifying matches.

Irankunda's emotional goal for Australia

Nestory Irankunda, who fled Burundi's civil war and was born in a Tanzanian refugee camp before settling in Australia at three months old, scored the opening goal in Australia's 2-0 victory over Türkiye. His superbly taken goal repaid the welcome his family received in their new home.

Olise's key role for France

While Kylian Mbappe made history as France's all-time leading scorer, Michael Olise played a crucial role in the 3-1 win over Senegal. After shifting to a more central role at half-time, the Bayern Munich attacker delivered a sublime pass for Mbappe to break the deadlock, setting France on their way to victory.

Balogun's brace for USA

Folarin Balogun starred in USA's 4-1 rout of Paraguay, scoring a brace including one spectacular goal. He became the first US player to score twice in a single World Cup match since 1930, wearing the No20 shirt as co-hosts hit the ground running.

Bouaddi impresses for Morocco

In a highly anticipated match against Brazil, 18-year-old Ayyoub Bouaddi stole the spotlight. He covered 11,872 meters and completed 59 passes in a 1-1 draw, holding his own physically against Premier League veterans Casemiro and Bruno Guimaraes in midfield.