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Eric Zillmer, Professor of Neuropsychology, Drexel University

How Messi, Mbappe and Haaland use their brains (as well as feet) to gain a psychological edge at the World Cup

World Cup Soccer Brain United States Lionel Messi Erling Haaland Martin Meissner
Norway's Erling Haaland celebrates scoring his side's opening goal during the World Cup group match against Iraq on June 16, 2026. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner) AP Photo/Martin Meissner

Part of soccer’s beauty lies in its unpredictability.

Already in World Cup 2026, we have seen Morocco tie with five-time champion Brazil and Australia overturn the odds by beating Turkey. But few surprises will top a Cabo Verde team ranked 67th at the start of the tournament holding Spain – many pundits’ pick for the title – to a 0-0 draw.

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