Whether you’re rooting for the US Men’s National Team or cheering on teams from around the world (from the comfort of a sports bar, of course), the 2026 World Cup kicked off this week with guaranteed excitement. We’re only two days in, and the energy is already through the roof—Mexico crushed South Africa, South Korea beat Czechia on Thursday, and stars like Lisa, Katy Perry, Tyla, and Future got the crowd hyped before the US took on Paraguay on Friday.
Read More: Tyla Wore Her National Pride on Her Nails for the FIFA World Cup Opening Ceremony
By Anna Cafolla
Below, check out some of the best moments from the first few days of the 2026 World Cup.
Salma Hayek Pinault presenting the Parade of Nations
Photo: Getty Images
The only way the World Cup opening ceremony’s traditional Parade of Nations could get more fabulous? With a touch of custom Gucci, of course. That’s exactly what longtime soccer fan Salma Hayek Pinault brought to Thursday’s event in Mexico, wearing a scarlet suit topped with a Boucheron brooch. (As if her presence wasn’t enough, Shakira, Burna Boy, and Andrea Bocelli were there too.)
Alanis Morissette performing the Canadian national anthem
Canada hosted the second World Cup opening ceremony on Thursday before their home team’s match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Alongside Alessia Cara, Jessie Reyez, Michael Bublé, and several other Canadian music legends, Alanis Morissette wowed the crowd with her version of “O Canada.” (Wait, I thought the official Canadian anthem was “You Oughta Know”…?)
The very first goal of the tournament
Mexican forward Julián Quiñones scored the first goal of the 2026 World Cup in the ninth minute of his team’s match against South Africa on Thursday. That gives him bragging rights forever—and gives us a perfect YouTube moment to watch on repeat.
The expanded transit options for Friday’s USA vs. Paraguay match
Okay, I’ll admit this one is pretty specific and not that flashy, but as someone from LA who tries to use public transit in our famously car-centric city as much as possible, I’m thrilled that LA Metro is offering enhanced World Cup bus service and Metrolink rail service to SoFi Stadium from 15 different spots in Los Angeles and Orange counties. (Also, did I mention a bus ride in LA costs only $1.75? Take that, New York!)
Lisa, Tyla, Katy Perry, and more took the stage in Los Angeles
Photo: Getty Images
After a dramatic drumline set the mood for the tens of thousands of fans packing SoFi Stadium, an exciting lineup of rappers and global pop stars hit the field. First, Future and Tyla performed “Game Time”; then Lisa, Anitta, and Rema came out for a high-energy version of “Goals.” Katy Perry helped wrap things up before the USA vs. Paraguay match, wearing a shiny, sculptural silver dress as she sang “Wonder” with 10-year-old singer Tius. Sweet!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here is a list of FAQs about the 2026 FIFA World Cup The 5 Best Moments From the Tournament So Far written in a natural conversational tone
General Beginner Questions
1 Wait the 2026 World Cup hasnt happened yet How can there be best moments already
Great question This FAQ is likely based on the qualifying matches that have already taken place or its a speculative preview of what fans expect to be the best moments from the actual tournament in 2026
2 What are the 5 best moments from the 2026 World Cup so far
Since the tournament hasnt started yet these moments usually refer to the most exciting things that happened during the qualifying rounds These often include a lastminute goal by a favorite team a huge upset a recordbreaking performance an amazing fan display or a stunning goal from a rising star
3 Is the 2026 World Cup going to be different from previous ones
Yes Its the first World Cup to feature 48 teams and its being hosted by three countries the United States Canada and Mexico This means more games and a massive geographic spread
4 When does the actual 2026 World Cup start
The main tournament kicks off in June 2026 The final is scheduled for July 19 2026
Intermediate Specific Questions
5 What was the biggest surprise or upset in the 2026 qualifying so far
One of the most talkedabout moments was likely a smaller nation like Canada or Costa Rica beating a traditional powerhouse like Mexico or the USA in a highstakes qualifier or a team like Panama securing their spot with a dramatic win These underdog stories are always considered best moments
6 Which player has been the best in the 2026 qualifying campaign
While it depends on who you ask fans are often buzzing about young stars like