The knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026 has begun, and the competition is entering its most decisive phase. As teams battle for a place in the later rounds, FIFA has released its latest Power Rankings, revealing surprising individual performances from the tournament.
Despite leading the scoring charts, Lionel Messi has been ranked second, while Cristiano Ronaldo is placed much lower at 79th. The biggest surprise is Germany forward Deniz Undav, who has claimed the No. 1 spot.
Deniz Undav Tops FIFA World Cup 2026 Power Rankings
Germany striker Deniz Undav has emerged as the highest-ranked outfield player after the group stage.
According to FIFA’s performance-based ranking system, Undav earned impressive ratings across attacking, creativity and defensive contributions, making him the tournament’s top-rated player.
His overall scores include:
- Attacking: 8.36
- Creativity: 6.78
- Defending: 4.70
Undav has been one of Germany’s standout performers, contributing three goals and two assists during the tournament.
Lionel Messi Continues Historic World Cup Run
Although Messi is ranked second in the FIFA Power Rankings, he remains the tournament’s leading goal scorer.
The Argentina captain has scored six goals in three group-stage matches, taking his all-time FIFA World Cup tally to 19 goals, the highest by any men’s player in World Cup history.
Messi received the following ratings:
- Attacking: 8.34
- Creativity: 6.43
- Defending: 5.14
His performances continue to play a crucial role in Argentina’s campaign for another World Cup title.
Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior Complete Top Four
France star Kylian Mbappe occupies third place in the rankings after another productive group stage.
Brazil winger Vinicius Junior follows closely in fourth position.
Their scores are:
Kylian Mbappe
- Attacking: 8.13
- Creativity: 7.25
- Defending: 4.59
Vinicius Junior
- Attacking: 7.92
- Creativity: 6.39
- Defending: 4.75
Both players remain among the favourites to influence the knockout rounds.
Cristiano Ronaldo Ranked 79th
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has been placed 79th in FIFA’s latest Power Rankings.
His ratings stand at:
- Attacking: 5.72
- Creativity: 4.98
- Defending: 4.74
Although Ronaldo remains one of football’s greatest players, his tournament performances so far have not matched those of the highest-ranked stars.
How FIFA Power Rankings Work
The FIFA World Cup 2026 Power Rankings evaluate every player’s overall contribution during the tournament.
Outfield players receive scores in three categories:
- Attacking
- Creativity
- Defending
Goalkeepers are assessed based on:
- Goalkeeping performance
- Possession and distribution
Each player receives an individual match rating, which contributes to their overall tournament ranking.
Deniz Undav Inspires the Yazidi Community
Beyond his football achievements, Deniz Undav’s success carries significant cultural importance.
The Germany international is the son of Yazidi refugees and proudly identifies with his Kurdish Yazidi heritage. His performances have become a source of inspiration for Yazidi communities around the world, many of whom have faced decades of persecution.
Undav said he hopes his World Cup journey encourages young people from every background to believe they can achieve success on football’s biggest stage.
Top 4 FIFA World Cup 2026 Power Rankings
- Deniz Undav (Germany)
- Lionel Messi (Argentina)
- Kylian Mbappe (France)
- Vinicius Junior (Brazil)
Cristiano Ronaldo is ranked 79th in the latest standings.
As the knockout stage progresses, the rankings are expected to change based on each player’s performances in the remaining matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
