Lionel Messi's opening goal against Algeria has been ranked as the best moment of the World Cup thus far, according to a BBC Sport assessment. The Argentina captain collected the ball 30 yards from the goal and scored with a left-footed shot into the top corner.
Following Messi's strike at the top of the list, Kylian Mbappe's second goal against Senegal secured the second spot. The French forward struck from 30 yards out past Edouard Mendy. Folarin Balogun's goal against Paraguay was ranked third, showcasing pace, power, and composure as he curled the ball into the top corner. USA midfielder Gio Reyna's fourth goal against Paraguay, where he moved into the penalty box and curled the ball into the far corner with the outside of his right boot, was placed fourth.
Other notable goals include Yasin Ayari's opener for Sweden against Tunisia, described as a rasping shot from 25 yards that arrowed into the corner. Vinicius Jr's equalizer against Morocco for Brazil also made the list, showcasing brilliance as he cut back on his right foot and bent an unstoppable shot into the far corner. Ermin Mahmic's volley against Switzerland for Bosnia, his first international goal, and Ali Olwan's goal for Jordan against Austria, a curling shot off the post, were also highlighted. Daniel Munoz's flicked volley for Colombia and Felix Nmecha's goal for Germany after a one-two with Florian Wirtz completed the top ten.
These rankings are based on an evaluation of matches, moments, players, and goals after two rounds of fixtures in the tournament. The assessment aims to capture the most impactful and skillful plays of the competition to date.