Barcelona's World Cup representatives are scattered across many of the tournament favourites, although a significant number are part of Spain's squad. As a result, when Spain performs well, Barcelona supporters often have plenty to celebrate too.
Matchday 2 of the 2026 World Cup brought victories for Spain, Brazil, the Netherlands, France, Portugal and Egypt, while England laboured through another unconvincing display and Uruguay once again failed to impress. There was also bad news for Raphinha as another injury struck for the season.
With one group-stage game remaining, several nations are still battling to secure top spot and a more favourable route through the knockout rounds.
While team results dominated the headlines, a number of Barcelona stars delivered standout individual performances. So, after the second round of fixtures, which three players impressed the most?
Lamine Yamal
There was plenty of debate over whether Lamine Yamal should be risked against opposition Spain were expected to beat comfortably, given his recent injury concerns. However, Luis de la Fuente handed the Barcelona starlet his first World Cup start, and boy, did he seize the opportunity.
The 18-year-old helped set Spain on their way to a convincing 4-0 victory, arriving at the far post to convert a superb delivery from Barcelona-linked Mikel Oyarzabal. It was a timely reminder of Yamal's instinctive movement and eye for goal, which was viewed as a difficult finish
While the performance was not quite at the extraordinary level fans have come to expect from the teenage sensation, it was another encouraging step forward. With his fitness continuing to improve, a consistent run of minutes could allow Yamal to hit top form just as the tournament reaches its most important stages.
Frenkie De Jong
The Netherlands were under pressure heading into their second group-stage match after being held to a draw by Japan, with a potentially tricky test against Sweden awaiting them. However, Frenkie de Jong stepped up when his side needed him most, producing an influential display at the heart of midfield.
The Barcelona vice-captain played just over an hour of the 5-1 victory and, despite not registering a goal or an assist, was central to the Netherlands' dominance. De Jong dictated the tempo, recycled possession efficiently and repeatedly launched attacks with his trademark range of passing, switching play to the flanks and helping his side stretch the Swedish defence.
It was another reminder of the qualities that make him one of the world's finest midfielders, and the emphatic win leaves the Dutch well placed heading into their final group-stage clash with Tunisia, where top spot will be on the line.
Lionel Messi
He has been the standout player of the tournament so far, consistently setting the standard on football’s biggest stage. The Barcelona connection remains strong and proudly represented, securing his place on the list and the previous one.
Following his brace, he also moves clear as the greatest goalscorer in World Cup history, overtaking Miroslav Klose on 18 goals, with the possibility of adding even more to his record. Further argument to his GOAT tag.
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