Mbappe may command the cameras, but the tactical blueprint of this quarterfinal will be drawn in the dirt by Olise and Bouaddi.

Traditionally, African nations have been among the most underrated sides in the FIFA World Cup. Although no African nation has ever won the tournament or reached the final in any of its previous 22 editions, their steady rise on the global football stage has gradually changed perceptions about their prospects in the sport’s biggest event.

From established names finally experiencing football's biggest stage to young talents announcing themselves to the world, several first-time World Cup participants have already played decisive roles for their countries.

When the announcement of the player of the match came, a few eyebrows were raised. Many felt the award should have gone to Morocco's 18-year-old midfield sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi instead of Brazil's Vinicius Junior after a pulsating 1-1 draw in New Jersey on Sunday.