The 2026 FIFA World Cup has delivered no shortage of drama on the pitch, but a new photo gallery from The Guardian offers a rare glimpse behind the scenes, capturing the superstars of the tournament in moments of quiet preparation.
"Footballers are known for their eclectic matchday rituals: Lionel Messi likes to drink maté with teammate Rodrigo De Paul at exactly 9.30am, while Harry Kane always dons the left side of his kit first," The Guardian notes.
The candid photographs show elite players finalizing their mental and physical preparations, from tunnel walkouts to pre-match huddles. The gallery humanizes the icons, revealing the personal quirks and superstitions that accompany them onto the world's biggest stage.
Messi, who has already lifted the World Cup once, was spotted sipping his traditional maté alongside De Paul, continuing a ritual that has been a staple of Argentina's campaign. Meanwhile, England captain Kane’s meticulous kit order is captured, offering insight into the routines that ground these athletes amid the chaos of a major tournament.
The collection also features other World Cup stars, each with their own unique customs, as The Guardian's gallery demonstrates the blend of focus and tradition that defines the modern footballer.
As the tournament progresses, these images serve as a reminder of the mental toughness required, supplementing the physical battles on the field.
