Following in the footsteps of legends like Thomas Muller, Kylian Mbappe, and Enzo Fernandez, FIFA has compiled a list of 10 young stars set to showcase their talent this week in the race to become the Best Young Player. The announcement highlights the top performers in the group stage opener of the 2026 World Cup. FIFA plans to select the Best Young Player from those born after January 1, 2005. The list features outstanding young talents including Australia’s Nestory Irankunda and the United States’ Alex Freeman.
June 19, Kathmandu – As all 48 teams completed their first matches in the group stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026, several young players delivered remarkable performances. These young stars have already left their mark on the global stage. FIFA has identified 10 young players who impressed most in the North American group phase openers, covering a spectrum from Australia’s youngest World Cup goal scorer Nestory Irankunda to dynamic forwards Ben Gyanan-Dok and Yan Diomande. Defenders like Alex Freeman and Luke de Fougerolles also made significant impacts in their debut matches. The FIFA Young Player Award, sponsored by Aram Company, is presented to the standout young player of the tournament, and many promising athletes have emerged as early contenders.
The FIFA technical study group will select the winner from players born after January 1, 2005, based on their performances during the 2026 World Cup.
- Nestory Irankunda (Australia): Just 20 years and 125 days old, Irankunda made history as Australia’s youngest World Cup goal scorer by netting a goal in his very first match. Against Turkey, he controlled a long pass and delivered a composed finish into an open goal. His explosive, direct, and technically proficient display earned him the title of ‘Superior Player of the Match.’ Former Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou praised his “amazing pace.”
- Paul Okon-Angstler (Australia): Covering extensive ground, Okon-Angstler provided a beautiful assist for Irankunda’s goal, catching everyone’s attention. The 21-year-old defensive midfielder, making his seventh international appearance, is renowned for initiating attacks with long passes and has earned full trust from coach Tony Popovic.
- Alex Freeman (United States): Son of former Green Bay Packers star and Super Bowl winner Antonio Freeman, 21-year-old Alex made his World Cup debut against Paraguay. Playing for Villarreal, he demonstrated physical strength and athleticism, assisting in the USA’s fourth goal. Coach Mauricio Pochettino remarked, “Alex Freeman can play as a third center-back or on the sides. When the ball is at his feet, the team feels relieved. He is a strong player.”
- Ayoub Bouadi (Morocco): In the match against Brazil, 18-year-old central midfielder Bouadi showed maturity, intelligence, calmness, and dedication, drawing praise from coach Mohamed Ouahbi and Olivier Giroud of Lille. Recently, he chose to represent Morocco instead of his birth country France.
- Yan Diomande (Ivory Coast): Diomande became Ivory Coast’s youngest World Cup participant at 19 during their victory over Ecuador. His outstanding performance at the Philadelphia Stadium earned him the ‘Superior Player of the Match.’ His manager described him as a versatile attacker capable of playing across both wings, outrunning defenders, and confusing opponents.
- Antonio Nusa (Norway): A key part of Norway’s attacking line, Nusa had an impressive World Cup debut by creating challenges for Iraq and assisting star player Erling Haaland’s goal. He shared, “I enjoy one-on-one duels; that’s where I get the most pleasure in football.”
- Ben Gyanan-Dok (Scotland): The creative 20-year-old, adept on both right and left flanks, has developed into a vital player for Scotland. Against Haiti, he deceived defenders and delivered a crucial assist, showing dynamic flank play. His upcoming match against Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi promises to be exciting. He said, “I try to approach it as playing football in the park, as I’ve been playing all my life.”
- Ibrahim Mbaye (Senegal): At 18 years and 142 days, Mbaye became the youngest African scorer in a World Cup when he scored against France. A member of the Lions of Teranga, his powerful goal during the fifth match introduced him to the global football audience. Fans are eager to see his speed, flair, and ball-carrying skills live.
- Luke de Fougerolles (Canada): Born in London, de Fougerolles has become Canada’s first-choice central defender as co-host. Trusted by coach Jesse Marsch, he demonstrated calmness, balance, and ball control. He occasionally ventured into midfield while helping Canada secure victories against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- Caleb Yirenky (Ghana): When the goalless match between Ghana and Panama seemed headed toward a draw, 20-year-old midfielder Caleb changed the game at the 95th minute. Winning possession from his own half, he converted Brandon Thomas-Asante’s cross into a close-range finish. His timely positioning and engine-like box-to-box stamina reflect his exceptional game intelligence.
The brilliance of these ten young players only scratches the surface of emerging talents from the opening stage. Spain’s Lamin Yamal, who came on against Cape Verde in the second half, boosted both the team’s level and the crowd’s enthusiasm. France’s Desire Doué showcased exceptional skill against Senegal, with a brilliant strike signaling France’s thrilling performance near halftime. Turkey’s Arda Güler took command and came close to scoring from a free kick against Australia, while Kenan Yildiz entered after halftime to consistently trouble opposing defenses.
