2022 World Cup midfielder power rankings: Matchday 3
By Mitch Wilks
With the group stages settled, we've had plenty of time to digest a flurry of masterful midfield performances.
So, what better time than now, ahead of the knockouts, to judge those best performing midfielders? Let's tuck into some power rankings.
10. Sofyan Amrabat (Morocco, down 1)
For all the sides tipped to be dark horses at the 2022 World Cup, Morocco have been massively overlooked.
Amrabat has been key to that, and keeps his spot in the top 10 heading into the knockout stages.
9. Mateo Kovacic (Croatia, up 1)
He couldn't find a goal against Belgium, but it wasn't for the want of trying.
Kovacic was classy yet again for Croatia, and is key to them going deep in the tournament once more.
8. Gavi (Spain, down 5)
Gavi endured a night to forget against Japan in matchday three, completely unable to get himself into the game.
He wasn't the only one, though, and will no doubt bounce back given just how supremely talented he is.
7. Frenkie de Jong (Netherlands, re-entry)
A really classy display from De Jong in matchday three.
Yes it was only Qatar, but he still had to show up. As the tournament progresses, you can see him continuing to grow in confidence and subsequently influence for the Oranje.
6. Pedri (Spain, -)
It was a similar story to Gavi for Pedri against Japan.
The 20-year-old didn't enjoy his best game, but will continue to prove a key asset for La Roja throughout the knockout stages.
5. Jude Bellingham (England, up 3)
The sooner Gareth Southgate realises England's best midfielder is Bellingham, the better.
He's far from perfect just yet, but trust him and he will fly. Absolutely dynamite.
4. Tyler Adams (USA, new entry)
The Leeds United man is putting together a seriously impressive tournament as captain of the USMNT.
So much so, that if he can take this level back into the domestic season, you wouldn't be surprised to see top level sides sniff around for his services.
3. Bruno Fernandes (Portugal, down 1)
After a rampant performance in matchday two, Fernandes sat out as Portugl lost to South Korea.
He'll be looking at that game thinking he could've been the difference.
2. Alexis Mac Allister (Argentina, new entry)
The Brighton man continues to excel and bagged his first goal for Argentina against Poland.
Striking low past Wojciech Szczesny was the highlight from yet another incredibly exciting performance. His future is bright.
1. Casemiro (Brazil, -)
He's just absolutely immense, isn't he?
For all the flair Brazil have, they need a Casemiro to sweep up accordingly and add some bite to the side. He does that in the very best way possible. This man is thriving on the world stage.
