World Cup 2026 Matchday 1: Boot Spotting Highlights
The opening round of the 2026 World Cup showcased an extraordinary mix of football boots. While bright pink colourways dominated the pitch, closer inspecti
The opening round of the 2026 World Cup showcased an extraordinary mix of football boots. While bright pink colourways dominated the pitch, closer inspection revealed rare customs, nostalgic throwbacks, and lesser-known brands. From iconic silhouettes to bold collaborations, here is a breakdown of the most notable footwear on display.
Lionel Messi (Argentina) – adidas F50 Elite Messi
Messi arrived at his sixth World Cup wearing his signature edition boots and delivered a hat‑trick in the opening match. The boots are a fitting tribute to his enduring legacy.
Kylian Mbappé (France) – Nike Mercurial Superfly XI
The French forward continues his World Cup form with the latest generation of Mercurial Superfly. The vivid pink colourway matches his explosive speed on the pitch.
Michael Olise (France) – Custom Nike Hypervenom
Olise stands out by wearing the iconic Hypervenom silo rather than the latest releases. For the World Cup, he used a custom design by LA‑based artist Matty Boy, colour‑matched to his kit.
Kai Havertz (Germany) – PUMA Future 9
Havertz started the tournament strongly after a successful season with Arsenal. His bright Future 9 boots are hard to miss and complement his confident play.
Erling Haaland (Norway) – Nike Phantom 6
Norway’s first World Cup appearance in 28 years saw Haaland score a brace. The striker’s Phantom 6 boots were part of a dominant performance.
Harry Kane (England) – Skechers SKX 2 Elite
England’s captain has maintained his high scoring form well into the tournament. His Skechers boots look clean against the all‑white England kit.
Vozinha (Cabo Verde) – Senda Mendoza Elite
The goalkeeper kept a clean sheet against the European champions while wearing a boot brand that few will recognise. Senda stands apart from the major sportswear giants.
Nicolas Raskin (Belgium) – Nike Patta Mercurial Vapor
Raskin wore one of the year’s most talked‑about collaborations – Nike’s Patta Mercurial. The streetwear‑inspired design adds a fresh look to the pitch.
Christian Pulisic (USA) – PUMA x KidSuper Ultra 6 Pulisic
Pulisic’s signature boot at a US‑hosted World Cup features stars and stripes. The collaboration with KidSuper is a bold American statement.
Lamine Yamal (Spain) – adidas F50 Hyperfast Elite LL
Yamal’s laceless F50 boots, sagged shorts, and headband have become a recognisable look. Despite a quiet 20‑minute cameo, his potential remains high.
Shahriyar Moghanlou (Iran) – Nike Mercurial OG Superfly RGN
Moghanlou chose a throwback Mercurial Superfly from Nike’s most iconic range. Seeing such a classic model on the biggest stage is a treat for boot enthusiasts.
Achraf Hakimi (Morocco) – Under Armour Shadow Elite 4
Under Armour’s flagship player wore the latest bright colourway of the Shadow Elite. The boots stand out as he aims to repeat his previous World Cup success.
Marcel Sabitzer (Austria) – Nike Mercurial Vapor XVI AM95
Sabitzer laced up in a clean all‑white Mercurial inspired by the Air Max 95. The iridescent finish makes this one of 2025’s best‑looking drops.
Bukayo Saka (England) – New Balance Furon 9 x Stone Island
Saka’s New Balance collaboration with Stone Island was given a World Cup debut. The boots suit the England winger’s style on and off the pitch.
Ramin Rezaeian (Iran) – Nike Mercurial Vapor X
Rezaeian went for a classic from 2014 – the Mercurial Vapor X in pink. This model is associated with players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Eden Hazard.
Raphinha (Brazil) – adidas Predator Elite Laced
Brazil’s forward opted for the laced version of the Predator Elite. His choice keeps the silhouette simple while still turning heads.
Virgil van Dijk (Netherlands) – Nike Tiempo Ligera
Van Dijk wore the lightweight Tiempo Ligera in a pink colourway. The contrast with the Dutch orange kit is striking, but the boot itself is elegant.
Tahith Chong (Curaçao) – Custom Nike Mercurial Superfly
Chong made his World Cup debut in custom‑painted Mercurials. Personalised designs like this add character to the tournament.
Odeh Al‑Fakhouri (Jordan) – Nike Mercurial Vapor Vini Jr
Al‑Fakhouri wore the latest “Voa Vini” colourway, usually unavailable at retail in the elite version. His connections allowed him to showcase this rare boot on the world stage.
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