More standout performances from MLS and Liga MX players highlighted the second round of matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
As the group stage begins to take shape, several players from MLS and Liga MX clubs have continued to leave their mark on the world's biggest stage. From record-setting goals to influential midfield displays and breakthrough moments for young stars, Matchday 2 provided another reminder of the growing impact North America's domestic leagues are having on the international game.
Here are four more Leagues Cup participants who stood out during the second round of group-stage action. Leagues Cup tickets are currently available at leaguescup.com/tickets.
LIONEL MESSI (Argentina/Inter Miami)
For the second straight week, it's no surprise Lionel Messi headlines the list.
After opening the tournament with a hat trick against Algeria, the Inter Miami superstar followed it up with another two goals in Argentina's victory over Austria. Through two matches, Messi has already scored five goals and continues to lead the charge for the defending world champions.
At 38 years old and competing in a record sixth FIFA World Cup, Messi continues to perform at a level few players in history have reached. Whether finishing chances himself or creating opportunities for those around him, the Argentine captain remains the focal point of one of the tournament favorites.
As Argentina closes in on the knockout rounds, Messi's form will only strengthen expectations that the reigning champions can make another deep run in pursuit of back-to-back World Cup titles.
STEPHEN EUSTAQUIO (Canada/LAFC)
While he may not have found the scoresheet, few MLS players have been more influential for their national team than LAFC midfielder Stephen Eustaquio.
The Canadian captain has emerged as the heartbeat of a team that has been among the tournament's most impressive countries through the group stage. Eustaquio leads Canada in total touches, total passes and total crosses, underlining his importance in both possession and attack.
Operating as Canada's midfield leader, Eustaquio has consistently helped his side control the tempo of matches while connecting defense and attack. His leadership and distribution have played a major role in Canada's strong start to the tournament, helping the co-hosts establish themselves as one of the more entertaining teams in the group stage.
FINN SURMAN (New Zealand/Portland Timbers)
Portland Timbers defender Finn Surman enjoyed a career milestone despite New Zealand's 3-1 defeat to Egypt.
The 22-year-old center back scored the opening goal of the match, rising to meet a corner kick and powering home his first-ever FIFA World Cup goal. It was a breakthrough moment for one of the youngest players representing MLS at the tournament and briefly gave New Zealand the advantage against an Egyptian side that eventually rallied for the win.
Although the result did not go New Zealand's way, Surman's performance provided another glimpse of his potential. Defenders rarely get opportunities to make headlines in front of goal on the World Cup stage, but the young Portland standout seized his moment and delivered one of the tournament's most memorable goals by an MLS player so far.
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