World Cup 2022: Every Man Of The Match Winner
The FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar was a thrilling tournament filled with incredible performances. Every match had standout players, but only one could be crowned the Man of the Match. This prestigious award recognizes the player who had the most significant impact on the game, whether through scoring goals, making crucial saves, or dominating the midfield. Let's dive into the complete list of Man of the Match winners from each game of the World Cup 2022, reliving some of the tournament's most memorable moments and celebrating the individual brilliance that lit up the world stage.
Group Stage Heroes
The group stage of the World Cup always brings surprises, and the Man of the Match awards reflected that perfectly. From seasoned veterans to emerging stars, the group games provided a platform for players to shine. These awards not only celebrated individual achievements but also highlighted the diverse talent present in the tournament. Each player's contribution helped shape their team's journey, making the group stage a captivating spectacle for football fans worldwide.
Qatar vs. Ecuador: Enner Valencia
The opening match saw Ecuador's Enner Valencia securing the Man of the Match award. His two goals, including a penalty, set the tone for Ecuador's campaign and demonstrated his importance to the team. Valencia's clinical finishing and tireless work rate made him a constant threat to the Qatari defense, earning him the first individual accolade of the tournament. His performance underscored Ecuador's determination to make an impact on the world stage.
England vs. Iran: Bukayo Saka
Bukayo Saka of England earned the Man of the Match award in their dominant victory over Iran. Saka's two goals showcased his composure and skill, solidifying his place as a key player for the Three Lions. His performance was a blend of youthful exuberance and technical precision, signaling his potential to be one of the tournament's standout players. Saka's contribution helped England start their campaign with a resounding statement.
Senegal vs. Netherlands: Cody Gakpo
Cody Gakpo was named Man of the Match in the Netherlands' win against Senegal. His late goal secured the victory for the Dutch, highlighting his ability to perform under pressure. Gakpo's versatility and attacking prowess made him a valuable asset for the Netherlands, and his goal was a testament to his growing reputation as a talented forward. This award marked the beginning of what would be a breakthrough tournament for Gakpo.
USA vs. Wales: Gareth Bale
Gareth Bale earned the Man of the Match award for Wales in their draw against the USA. Bale's late penalty rescued a point for Wales, marking their return to the World Cup after 64 years. His leadership and experience were crucial in a tense encounter, and his ability to deliver in critical moments proved vital. Bale's performance underscored his legendary status in Welsh football history.
Argentina vs. Saudi Arabia: Mohammed Al-Owais
In a shocking upset, Saudi Arabia defeated Argentina, and goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais was named Man of the Match. His outstanding saves and commanding presence in the box frustrated the Argentinian attack. Al-Owais's heroics were instrumental in securing a historic victory for Saudi Arabia, defying pre-tournament expectations and injecting excitement into Group C.
Denmark vs. Tunisia: Aissa Laidouni
Aissa Laidouni of Tunisia was awarded Man of the Match for his energetic performance against Denmark. His tireless work rate and defensive contributions helped Tunisia secure a valuable point. Laidouni's ability to disrupt Denmark's midfield and create attacking opportunities made him a standout player in a tightly contested match. His performance highlighted Tunisia's resilience and tactical discipline.
Mexico vs. Poland: Guillermo Ochoa
Guillermo Ochoa earned the Man of the Match award for Mexico in their draw against Poland. Ochoa saved a penalty from Robert Lewandowski, preserving a clean sheet for his team. His experience and shot-stopping ability were crucial in a game where both sides struggled to find a breakthrough. Ochoa's heroics ensured Mexico remained competitive in a challenging group.
France vs. Australia: Kylian Mbappé
Kylian Mbappé was named Man of the Match in France's victory over Australia. Mbappé's goal and overall attacking threat showcased his world-class talent. His pace, skill, and clinical finishing made him a nightmare for the Australian defense. This award set the stage for Mbappé's exceptional tournament, where he would continue to dazzle fans with his performances.
Morocco vs. Croatia: Luka Modrić
Luka Modrić earned the Man of the Match award for his influential performance in Croatia's draw against Morocco. His control of the midfield and playmaking ability dictated the tempo of the game. Modrić's experience and vision were crucial in a tactical battle between two strong sides. His performance highlighted his enduring quality and leadership for the Croatian team.
Germany vs. Japan: Shuichi Gonda
Shuichi Gonda, the goalkeeper for Japan, was awarded Man of the Match for his outstanding performance against Germany. Despite conceding a penalty, Gonda made numerous crucial saves, preventing Germany from extending their lead. His resilience and agility were instrumental in Japan's stunning comeback victory. Gonda's heroics demonstrated Japan's determination and tactical prowess.
Spain vs. Costa Rica: Gavi
Gavi was named Man of the Match in Spain's dominant win over Costa Rica. Gavi's goal and dynamic performance in midfield showcased his immense potential. At just 18 years old, he became one of the youngest players to score in a World Cup, marking his arrival on the international stage. Gavi's performance highlighted Spain's exciting blend of youth and experience.
Belgium vs. Canada: Kevin De Bruyne
Kevin De Bruyne earned the Man of the Match award for Belgium in their narrow victory over Canada. Despite not scoring, De Bruyne's creativity and passing ability were crucial in unlocking the Canadian defense. His influence in midfield and ability to create scoring opportunities made him a standout player. De Bruyne's performance underscored his importance to Belgium's campaign.
Switzerland vs. Cameroon: Breel Embolo
Breel Embolo was named Man of the Match in Switzerland's win against Cameroon. Embolo scored the decisive goal, demonstrating his composure and finishing ability. His overall performance was marked by his strong work rate and attacking threat. Embolo's goal secured a vital victory for Switzerland in a closely contested match.
Uruguay vs. South Korea: Federico Valverde
Federico Valverde earned the Man of the Match award for Uruguay in their draw against South Korea. Valverde's energetic performance in midfield and his long-range shooting ability troubled the South Korean defense. His versatility and work rate made him a standout player in a game where both sides struggled to find a breakthrough. Valverde's performance highlighted his growing importance to the Uruguayan team.
Portugal vs. Ghana: Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo was named Man of the Match in Portugal's victory over Ghana. Ronaldo scored a penalty, becoming the first player to score in five different World Cups. His leadership and determination were evident throughout the match, inspiring his team to a hard-fought win. Ronaldo's historic goal underscored his legendary status in football history.
Brazil vs. Serbia: Richarlison
Richarlison earned the Man of the Match award for Brazil in their win against Serbia. Richarlison scored both goals, including a spectacular overhead kick, showcasing his finishing ability. His performance was a testament to his growing importance in the Brazilian national team. Richarlison's goals helped Brazil start their campaign with a dominant performance.
Wales vs. Iran: Rouzbeh Cheshmi
Rouzbeh Cheshmi of Iran earned the Man of the Match award for his late goal against Wales. His stunning strike secured a crucial victory for Iran, boosting their chances of advancing to the knockout stage. Cheshmi's goal was a moment of brilliance, highlighting Iran's determination and resilience.
Qatar vs. Senegal: Famara Diédhiou
Famara Diédhiou was named Man of the Match in Senegal's victory over Qatar. Diédhiou scored a crucial goal, helping Senegal secure a vital win in their quest to advance from the group stage. His performance underscored Senegal's attacking prowess and determination.
Netherlands vs. Ecuador: Enner Valencia
Enner Valencia earned his second Man of the Match award of the group stage in Ecuador's draw against the Netherlands. Valencia scored again, continuing his impressive form in the tournament. His goal ensured Ecuador remained competitive in a challenging group.
England vs. USA: Christian Pulisic
Christian Pulisic was named Man of the Match in the USA's draw against England. Pulisic's dynamic performance and attacking threat troubled the English defense. His creativity and skill were on full display, highlighting his importance to the American team.
Tunisia vs. Australia: Mitchell Duke
Mitchell Duke earned the Man of the Match award for his goal in Australia’s crucial match against Tunisia. His header proved decisive, securing a vital win for the Socceroos and boosting their chances of progressing to the knockout stages. Duke’s goal and overall performance highlighted Australia’s fighting spirit and determination.
Poland vs. Saudi Arabia: Wojciech Szczęsny
Wojciech Szczęsny was named Man of the Match in Poland's victory over Saudi Arabia. Szczęsny saved a penalty and made several other crucial saves, preserving Poland's lead and securing a vital win. His heroics in goal were instrumental in Poland's success.
France vs. Denmark: Kylian Mbappé
Kylian Mbappé earned his second Man of the Match award for France in their win against Denmark. Mbappé scored both goals, showcasing his world-class talent and finishing ability. His performance ensured France became the first team to qualify for the knockout stage.
Argentina vs. Mexico: Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi was named Man of the Match in Argentina's crucial match against Mexico. Messi scored a vital goal and provided an assist, leading Argentina to a much-needed victory. His brilliance and leadership were on full display, reigniting Argentina's World Cup campaign.
Japan vs. Costa Rica: Keysher Fuller
Keysher Fuller earned the Man of the Match award for scoring the lone goal in Costa Rica's surprising victory over Japan. His precise finish secured a vital three points for Costa Rica, keeping their hopes of advancing to the knockout stage alive. Fuller’s opportunistic strike highlighted Costa Rica’s resilience and tactical execution.
Belgium vs. Morocco: Achraf Hakimi
Achraf Hakimi was named Man of the Match in Morocco's stunning victory over Belgium. His dynamic performance and crucial defensive contributions helped Morocco secure a historic win. Hakimi’s speed, skill, and tactical awareness were instrumental in Morocco's success.
Croatia vs. Canada: Andrej Kramarić
Andrej Kramarić earned the Man of the Match award for Croatia in their dominant win over Canada. Kramarić scored two goals, showcasing his clinical finishing and attacking prowess. His performance helped Croatia bounce back from their opening draw and assert their dominance in Group F.
Spain vs. Germany: Jamal Musiala
Jamal Musiala was named Man of the Match in the high-octane draw between Spain and Germany. Despite his young age, Musiala showcased incredible dribbling skills and created numerous opportunities for Germany. His fearless performance and creative flair highlighted his potential as a future star.
Cameroon vs. Serbia: Vincent Aboubakar
Vincent Aboubakar earned the Man of the Match award in Cameroon's thrilling 3-3 draw against Serbia. Coming off the bench, Aboubakar scored a sensational goal and provided an assist, turning the game on its head. His impact was immediate and transformative, showcasing his ability to change the course of a match.
South Korea vs. Ghana: Mohammed Kudus
Mohammed Kudus was named Man of the Match for Ghana in their exciting match against South Korea. This guy scored two goals. His performance highlighted Ghana's attacking talent and determination. His goals kept Ghana in contention for a spot in the knockout stages.
Portugal vs. Uruguay: Bruno Fernandes
Bruno Fernandes earned the Man of the Match award for Portugal in their victory over Uruguay. Fernandes scored both goals, securing Portugal's place in the knockout stage. His creativity, vision, and clinical finishing were on full display, solidifying his importance to the Portuguese team.
Brazil vs. Switzerland: Casemiro
Casemiro was named Man of the Match in Brazil's hard-fought victory over Switzerland. Casemiro scored a stunning goal, securing Brazil's place in the knockout stage. His defensive solidity and ability to contribute in attack made him a standout player.
Serbia vs. Switzerland: Granit Xhaka
Granit Xhaka earned the Man of the Match award for Switzerland in their dramatic match against Serbia. Xhaka's leadership and midfield control were crucial in securing Switzerland's victory and advancement to the knockout stage. His passionate performance and tactical awareness helped Switzerland navigate a tough encounter.
South Korea vs. Portugal: Kim Young-gwon
Kim Young-gwon was named Man of the Match in South Korea's stunning victory over Portugal. Kim scored a crucial goal, helping South Korea secure a place in the knockout stage. His defensive performance was also outstanding, frustrating Portugal's attacking efforts.
Ghana vs. Uruguay: Giorgian de Arrascaeta
Giorgian de Arrascaeta earned the Man of the Match award for Uruguay in their match against Ghana, despite Uruguay’s elimination from the tournament. De Arrascaeta scored both goals for Uruguay, showcasing his attacking talent and determination. His performance provided a glimmer of hope for Uruguay, even though it wasn't enough to advance.
Cameroon vs. Brazil: Vincent Aboubakar
Vincent Aboubakar earned his second Man of the Match award of the group stage in Cameroon's surprising victory over Brazil. Aboubakar scored the winning goal, helping Cameroon secure a historic win. His impact off the bench was once again decisive, highlighting his ability to influence the game.
Serbia vs. Switzerland: Remo Freuler
Remo Freuler earned the Man of the Match award for Switzerland in their thrilling match against Serbia. Freuler's energetic performance and crucial contributions in midfield helped Switzerland secure a vital win. His ability to win tackles and distribute the ball effectively made him a standout player.
Knockout Stage Standouts
The knockout stage brought even more intense competition and unforgettable moments. With higher stakes, the Man of the Match winners truly stepped up to lead their teams. These players showcased exceptional skill, determination, and composure under pressure, solidifying their place in World Cup history.
Netherlands vs. USA: Denzel Dumfries
Denzel Dumfries earned the Man of the Match award in the Netherlands' victory over the USA. Dumfries provided two assists and scored a goal, playing a pivotal role in his team's success. His dynamic performance and attacking threat were too much for the American defense to handle.
Argentina vs. Australia: Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi was once again named Man of the Match in Argentina's win against Australia. Messi scored a crucial goal, showcasing his brilliance and leading his team to the quarter-finals. His performance inspired Argentina and delighted fans around the world.
France vs. Poland: Kylian Mbappé
Kylian Mbappé earned another Man of the Match award in France's victory over Poland. Mbappé scored two goals, continuing his sensational form and cementing his status as a tournament superstar. His pace, skill, and clinical finishing were on full display.
England vs. Senegal: Jude Bellingham
Jude Bellingham was named Man of the Match in England's dominant win over Senegal. Bellingham's energetic performance in midfield and his assist showcased his immense potential. His ability to control the game and create opportunities made him a standout player.
Japan vs. Croatia: Dominik Livaković
Dominik Livaković earned the Man of the Match award for Croatia in their penalty shootout victory over Japan. Livaković saved three penalties, becoming a hero for his nation and securing their place in the quarter-finals. His heroics in goal were crucial to Croatia's success.
Brazil vs. South Korea: VinĂcius JĂşnior
VinĂcius JĂşnior was named Man of the Match in Brazil's dominant win over South Korea. VinĂcius scored a goal and provided an assist, showcasing his attacking talent and creativity. His performance highlighted Brazil's attacking prowess and their status as tournament favorites.
Morocco vs. Spain: Yassine Bounou
Yassine Bounou earned the Man of the Match award for Morocco in their penalty shootout victory over Spain. Bounou saved two penalties, becoming a national hero and leading Morocco to a historic quarter-final appearance. His outstanding performance in goal was instrumental in Morocco's success.
Portugal vs. Switzerland: Gonçalo Ramos
Gonçalo Ramos was named Man of the Match in Portugal's dominant win over Switzerland. Ramos scored a hat-trick, announcing himself on the world stage with a sensational performance. His clinical finishing and attacking threat made him a standout player.
Quarter-Final Clashes
The quarter-finals delivered drama and excitement, with several players rising to the occasion to lead their teams. The Man of the Match winners showcased exceptional skill, determination, and composure under immense pressure, securing their place in World Cup history.
Croatia vs. Brazil: Dominik Livaković
Dominik Livaković once again earned the Man of the Match award for Croatia in their penalty shootout victory over Brazil. Livaković made crucial saves throughout the match and saved a penalty in the shootout, leading Croatia to the semi-finals. His consistency and shot-stopping ability made him a standout performer.
Netherlands vs. Argentina: Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi was named Man of the Match in Argentina's dramatic penalty shootout victory over the Netherlands. Messi scored a goal and provided an assist, showcasing his brilliance and leading Argentina to the semi-finals. His leadership and determination were crucial in a hard-fought match.
Morocco vs. Portugal: Yassine Bounou
Yassine Bounou earned the Man of the Match award for Morocco in their historic victory over Portugal. Bounou made several crucial saves, preserving Morocco's lead and leading them to the semi-finals. His heroics in goal continued to inspire Morocco and captivate fans worldwide.
England vs. France: Antoine Griezmann
Antoine Griezmann was named Man of the Match in France's narrow victory over England. Griezmann provided two assists, showcasing his playmaking ability and creativity. His performance in midfield was instrumental in France's success.
Semi-Final Showdowns
The semi-finals featured intense battles and unforgettable moments, with the Man of the Match winners leading their teams on the brink of glory. These players rose to the occasion, displaying exceptional skill, determination, and leadership.
Argentina vs. Croatia: Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi earned another Man of the Match award in Argentina's dominant victory over Croatia. Messi scored a goal and provided an assist, leading Argentina to the World Cup final. His brilliance and leadership were on full display, inspiring Argentina and captivating fans worldwide.
France vs. Morocco: Antoine Griezmann
Antoine Griezmann was named Man of the Match in France's victory over Morocco. Griezmann's tireless work rate and defensive contributions were crucial in France's success. His tactical awareness and versatility made him a standout player.
The Final and the Ultimate Recognition
The World Cup final was a match for the ages, with both teams giving it their all. The Man of the Match award in the final is the ultimate recognition of individual brilliance on the biggest stage.
Argentina vs. France: Kylian Mbappé
In an extraordinary final, Kylian Mbappé was named Man of the Match, despite France losing to Argentina in a penalty shootout. Mbappé scored a hat-trick, becoming only the second player in World Cup history to achieve this feat in a final. His incredible performance showcased his world-class talent and cemented his status as one of the game's brightest stars. Though his team didn't win, Mbappé's individual brilliance shone brightly on the grandest stage.
Conclusion
The FIFA World Cup 2022 was a celebration of footballing talent, and the Man of the Match awards highlighted the individual brilliance that lit up the tournament. From group stage surprises to knockout stage heroics, these players left an indelible mark on the World Cup and created memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it was Enner Valencia's opening game heroics, Lionel Messi's inspiring performances, or Kylian Mbappé's final hat-trick, each Man of the Match winner contributed to the magic of the World Cup 2022.
