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World Cup 2026: Five standout Ligue 1 players in MD2

As the second matchday of the 2026 FIFA World Cup draws to a close, we look at five standout performers from Ligue 1 McDonald's.
L. ENTWISTLE
Published on 06/24/2026 at 10:30
3-minute read
Medina celebrating with Argentina teammate Messi during the win over Austria

As the second matchday of the 2026 FIFA World Cup draws to a close, we look at five standout performers from Ligue 1 McDonald's.

Ousmane Dembélé (France/ PSG) vs Iraq

Ousmane Dembélé has been lighting it up for PSG for two seasons now. Not only has he won back-to-back Champions League trophies, but he is also the current holder of the Ballon d'Or.

Against Iraq, he took that form onto the international stage. In a match delayed due to adverse weather, Dembouz laid the ball on a plate for former PSG teammate Kylian Mbappé to double his tally on the night before then calmly slotting home himself, as we have seen him do so often for Les Parisiens. It was his first goal at a World Cup. His contribution secured France's progression to the knockout rounds.

Facundo Medina (Argentina/ Marseille) vs Austria

Argentina have yet to concede in the World Cup as they look to defend their title. Marseille's Facundo Medina has played a big role in their strong defensive displays so far. 

At left-back, he has also provided plenty of attacking thrust, too. And he will forever be a part of history. It was his run down the left and ball across for Lionel Messi that allowed the former PSG forward to score the goal that made him the all-time top-scorer in the World Cup.

Amine Gouiri (Algeria/ Marseille) vs Jordan

The nerves would have been jangling for Algeria. 1-0 down to Jordan at half-time, they were staring down the barrel of an early exit. But Les Fennecs came roaring back in the second half and it was OM's Amine Gouiri who came in clutch. 

Both second-half goals came from corners for Algeria and it was Gouiri who got the second and the eventual winner, stealing in, anticipating the knock-on, and finishing on the half-volley. 

Nuno Mendes (Portugal/ PSG) vs Uzbekistan

Cristiano Ronaldo had already opened the scoring for Portugal and as he lined up a free-kick on the edge of the Uzbekistan box, the stadium held its breath.

It looked as though the former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward would take the free-kick, but then in came Nuno Mendes, defying expectations, curling the ball around the wall. After a tepid start, Portugal's competition has now truly begun.

Marvin Senaya (Ghana/ Auxerre) vs England

Whilst Ligue 1 McDonald's defenders were decisive at the other end of the pitch, Marvin Senaya performed a different role for Ghana as they held England to a 0-0 draw and seal their progression to the knockout phase of the World Cup. 

He effectively controlled the likes of Anthony Gordon, Noni Madueke and Marcus Rashford in what was a calm and composed performance. A mention also for his teammate both at club and international level, Gideon Mensah, another key member in that shutout. 

READ MORE

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>> The 2026/27 Ligue 1 McDonald's calendar is released

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