With every nation having played its opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, we decided to take a closer look at some of the MLS and Liga MX players involved in Leagues Cup who stood out on the biggest stage for their countries.
The opening round of matches delivered no shortage of memorable moments, from record-breaking performances to statement results against some of the tournament favorites. For Leagues Cup fans, it also provided an opportunity to see familiar faces from MLS and Liga MX competing against the world's best and making meaningful contributions for their national teams.
Here are some of the Leagues Cup participants who made an impact during the tournament's opening matchday.
LIONEL MESSI (Argentina/Inter Miami)
The obvious place to start is with Lionel Messi's dazzling performance for Argentina. The Inter Miami star scored a hat trick in Argentina's 3-0 victory over Algeria, becoming the oldest player to record a hat trick in a World Cup match. The three-goal outing also saw Messi reach 16 career World Cup goals, tying Miroslav Klose's all-time tournament scoring record.
Four years after winning the Golden Ball at the 2022 World Cup, Messi has picked up right where he left off. Even as Argentina continues to evolve around a new generation of talent, the 38-year-old remains the focal point of the reigning champions' attack. Whether creating chances, drawing defenders or setting the tempo, Messi remains the standard-bearer for MLS talent on the world stage.
As Messi competes in a record-breaking sixth World Cup, Inter Miami fans will be hoping to watch him make another run at a Leagues Cup title later this summer. Leagues Cup tickets are currently available. Fans are encouraged to visit leaguescup.com/tickets or their local club websites for ticket details.
Petar Musa (Croatia/FC Dallas)
FC Dallas forward Petar Musa enjoyed a memorable World Cup debut, scoring with his only shot in Croatia's 4-2 defeat to England. The 28-year-old struck a vital equalizer moments before halftime and made the most of his opportunity. Musa's goal provided FC Dallas with representation on the scoresheet at the World Cup and served as another example of the quality MLS players can bring to international competition. After establishing himself as a key attacking weapon in Dallas, Musa carried that form into Croatia's national team setup and displayed the clinical finishing that has become his trademark.
Steven Moreira (Cape Verde/Columbus Crew)
Columbus Crew defender Steven Moreira also deserves recognition after playing a key role in Cape Verde's 0-0 draw against Spain. Facing one of the tournament's strongest sides, Cape Verde needed discipline, organization and composure across the back line, and Moreira helped deliver exactly that. The 31-year-old right back played the full 90 minutes, helping secure one of the most surprising results of the opening matchday as Cape Verde frustrated Spain from start to finish to earn a valuable point that could prove crucial in the race to advance from Group H.
Leagues Cup tickets are currently available. Fans are encouraged to visit leaguescup.com/tickets or their local club websites for ticket details. For general information, visit LeaguesCup.com and follow @LeaguesCup on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube; @LeaguesCup on TikTok and subscribe to our channel on WhatsApp.
