Leagues Cup tickets are currently available. Fans are encouraged to visit leaguescup.com/tickets or their local club websites for ticket details.
The final round of group-stage matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup delivered plenty of drama as nations battled for places in the knockout rounds. Once again, players from MLS and Liga MX clubs played pivotal roles, producing goals, assists and influential performances against some of the world's top competition.
From tournament-leading scoring feats to breakout performances and statement victories, Matchday 3 further showcased the impact Leagues Cup participants are making on the biggest stage in international soccer.
Here are three more Leagues Cup players who stood out during the final round of group-stage action.
LIONEL MESSI (Argentina / Inter Miami)
Messi makes it a perfect 3-for-3 in headlining this list.
The Inter Miami captain did not start on Saturday, entering in the 60th minute but wasted little time making his presence felt, scoring his tournament-leading sixth goal in Argentina's 3-1 victory over Jordan.
Even in a substitute appearance, Messi once again demonstrated the finishing ability and composure that have defined one of the greatest World Cup careers in history as he scored his second dazzling free kick of the tournament.
Now preparing for the knockout rounds after recently celebrating his 39th birthday, he continues to be the driving force behind Argentina's pursuit of consecutive World Cup titles. Through three matches, Messi has scored six goals and remains the leading scorer of tournament and early favorite for the Golden Ball, proving that age has done little to slow one of soccer's all-time greats.
SEBASTIAN BERHALTER (United States / Vancouver Whitecaps FC)
Vancouver Whitecaps FC midfielder Sebastian Berhalter enjoyed a memorable World Cup moment despite the United States falling 3-2 to Türkiye.
The 24-year-old was making his first ever World Cup start and scored the Americans' lone second-half goal, continuing to make the most of his opportunities on soccer's biggest stage. Berhalter also assisted USA's early goal, serving up the corner kick to Auston Trusty left foot in the third minute, he consistently showed off intelligent movement into the attacking third and composed play throughout the match.
For a player making his first World Cup appearance, Berhalter has continued to show the confidence and versatility that have made him an important piece for Vancouver. His emergence also highlights the growing influence of young MLS talent on the international stage.
PEDRO VITE (Ecuador / Pumas)
Pedro Vite played another influential role as Ecuador secured one of the biggest results of the group stage, upsetting Germany 2-1 to clinch a place in the knockout rounds.
The Pumas midfielder recorded an assist in the victory while once again serving as Ecuador's creative engine. Vite led his team with 89 touches against Germany, consistently helping Ecuador maintain possession and dictate the rhythm of the match against one of the tournament favorites.
Through three group-stage matches, Vite has established himself as one of Ecuador's most important players, leading the team with 232 passes while contributing in both attack and possession. His vision, composure and passing range have been instrumental in Ecuador's impressive run into the Round of 32 and have further showcased the quality of the yound Liga MX stars competing in the World Cup.
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Leagues Cup 2026 inicia el 4 de agosto de 2026
