Whether you’re rooting for the US Men’s National Team or cheering your way around the globe (from the comfort of a sports bar, of course), the 2026 World Cup’s kickoff this week was guaranteed to thrill. We’re only two days in, and excitement has already reached a fever pitch—with Mexico trouncing South Africa and South Korea beating out Czechia on Thursday, and the likes of Lisa, Katy Perry, Tyla, and Future firing up the crowd before the US took on Paraguay on Friday.
Below, find some of the very best moments that have emerged from the first few days of the 2026 World Cup.
Salma Hayek Pinault presenting the Parade of Nations
Canada hosted the second World Cup opening ceremony on Thursday before its home team’s match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, and in addition to Alessia Cara, Jessie Reyez, Michael Bublé, and several other Canuck musical legends, the Alanis Morissette graced the crowd with her rendition of “O Canada.” (Sorry, I thought the official Canadian anthem was “You Oughta Know”…?)
The very first goal of the season
Mexican forward Julián Quiñones managed to score the first goal of the 2026 World Cup in the ninth minute of his team’s match against South Africa on Thursday, giving him bragging rights forever (and us an iconically YouTube-friendly moment to rewatch on repeat).
The expanded transit options accompanying Friday’s USA vs. Paraguay match
Okay, I’ll admit this one is fairly specific and not that sexy, but as an Angeleno who’s committed to taking public transit in our famously car-forward city as often as possible, I’m obsessed with LA Metro offering enhanced World Cup bus service and Metrolink rail service to SoFi Stadium from 15 different locations in Los Angeles and Orange counties. (Also, have I mentioned that 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
After a dramatic drumline helped to set the tone for the tens of thousands of fans filling SoFi, a thrilling lineup of rappers and global pop stars took the field. First, Future and Tyla appeared for a rendition of “Game Time”; then Lisa, Anitta, and Rema stepped out for a high-energy performance of “Goals.” Katy Perry helped to cap things off before the USA v. Paraguay match began, wearing a sculptural, coruscating silver dress as she sang “Wonder” with 10-year-old singer Tius. Sweet!
