Here are the top picks for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 player of the tournament, where Mbappe, Messi, and Bruno remain early frontrunners.
FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 was one of the year’s most anticipated events, and it did not disappoint. The compeition is still in its qualification stage, but it has already satisfied viewers globally.
The event has already produced huge upsets, record-breaking goals, and satisfactory wins. However, even with the World Cup being the possible last one for Messi and Ronaldo, all eyes are not fixed on them.
Several players have made a mark during the competition, making them eligible for the player of the tournament award. Let’s take a look at some of them:
Enner Valencia
The captain for Ecuador made the opening night a goal fest, scoring two back-to-back goals. The player became the first South American to secure five tournament goals in a row. Valencia also helped Ecuador stay in the competition by scoring an equalizer against the mighty Netherlands.
Lionel Messi
A name as famous as the sport, Lionel Messi, started the competition in the most disastrous way. Argentina’s loss against Saudi Arabia shocked everyone, putting even more pressure on Messi.
As expected, the left-footed genius came through against Mexico, breaking the deadlock. Messi also assisted Enzo for the second goal, becoming the oldest and the youngest player to assist and score in the same game.
Kylian Mbappe
The player’s current performance is a delightful surprise, given that Mbappe wanted to retire from international football last year. Mbappe is the youngest French player to have scored five goals in a tournament, a total that has already surpassed seven. Now that France is through the first stage, Mbappe’s chances of becoming the player of the tournament are even higher.
Marcus Rashford
The Manchester United forward entered the event as a sub, only to help England secure the 6-2 win against Iran. The player made his debut in the following match, displaying impressive game sense to back up a double against Wales.
Now that England is through to the top 16, the player is expected to shine even brighter than before as a starter.
Cody Gakpo
Even prior to the commencement of the World Cup, the great European player made headlines. Gakpo’s move to England was reported prior to the event, although the player is still playing for the Netherlands in the World Cup.
Gakpo became the first man to score in the first three World Cup games against Qatar, securing the Netherlands a position in the next stage.
Bruno Fernandes
Cristiano may be the star for Portugal, but it is Bruno who has been crucial for the team during the first two games. Bruno made way for Rafael Leao and Joao Felix during the game against Ghana.
The player continued his performance against Uruguay, scoring both goals to help Portugal succeed.
