Cristiano Ronaldo’s exit from the 2026 World Cup may have been marked by three goals, but his performance couldn’t compete with that of several standout Arab players. Despite his storied career, Ronaldo’s impact in this tournament fell short, overshadowed by the excellence displayed by others.
Ronaldo’s World Cup Journey
Ronaldo’s participation in the World Cup concluded in the knockout stage as Portugal was eliminated by Spain. Over five matches, the legendary forward clocked in 441 minutes on the pitch, contributing three goals to his country’s efforts. However, his inconsistent performances, particularly during the group stage where he struggled against Colombia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, hampered his overall rating and reputation in this tournament.
Arab Players Shine Bright
According to the statistics platform “WhoScored,” several Arab players emerged as top performers at the 2026 World Cup, surpassing Ronaldo in both technical ratings and their influence on their respective national teams. Achraf Hakimi from Morocco led the Arab contingent, securing the 22nd spot overall with an impressive rating of 7.46. In six matches, Hakimi not only scored once but also provided two assists, solidifying his status as one of the premier full-backs globally.
Additionally, Egypt’s goalkeeper, Mostafa Shobier, stood out with his remarkable performance, achieving a global ranking of 28th with a rating of 7.38. Shobier made headlines by saving two penalties during the tournament, proving to be one of the most surprising players of the competition.
Key Contributions from Egyptian Stars
Egypt’s captain, Mohamed Salah, also made a notable impact, landing in 48th place worldwide with a rating of 7.27. Over five matches, Salah scored once and provided two assists, playing a crucial role in Egypt’s journey through the tournament. His contributions were significant, showing his ability to perform under pressure.
Morocco’s Azzedine Ounahi followed, sitting in 108th place globally with a rating of 7.03, after scoring twice in six matches. His performances helped Morocco progress further, thus boosting his standing among the tournament’s best. Ismael Saibari ranked 141st with a rating of 6.96, netting three goals before an injury hindered his World Cup aspirations.
Finally, Nayef Aguerd also from Morocco, concluded the rankings in 153rd place with a rating of 6.94, which matched Ronaldo’s score. However, Aguerd’s ranking was enhanced due to Morocco’s longer tournament run and his greater on-field presence, illustrating the collective strength and impact of the Arab players during the World Cup.
In summary, while Ronaldo’s legacy in football remains undeniable, the 2026 World Cup served as a platform for Arab players to shine, showcasing their talent and dedication. Their performances not only drew attention but also reminded the world of the rising stars in football, proving that the sport continues to evolve with each tournament.