FIFA World Cup 2026: Best XI of the Tournament
The 2026 FIFA World Cup wrapped up on July 20th with Spain edging out Argentina 1-0 after extra time, claiming their second World Cup title. The event showcased outstanding performances from established stars and some newcomers who captured global attention.
Goalkeeper
Unai Simón | Spain
Simón stood tall as an almost unbeatable last line for Spain. Playing a sweeping goalkeeper role flawlessly, he conceded just one goal throughout the tournament. With Spain's defense pushing high up the pitch, he not only made crucial saves but also rushed out to break down threats, aiding his team in tight moments. He recorded 10 saves with a 90.9% save rate and set a new World Cup record by securing seven clean sheets. His efforts earned him the Adidas Golden Glove award.
Defenders
Marc Cucurella | Spain
Cucurella was relentless along the flank, vital to Spain's solid defense that allowed just one goal during the entire competition. Known for his pace and ability to push forward, he contributed two assists and maintained a 92% pass completion while playing every minute of the tournament. His defensive tenacity matched his offensive threat perfectly.
Marc Guéhi | England
England’s defensive rock, Guéhi, started six of seven matches and boasted a 97% passing accuracy with 476 completed passes. Winning 23 duels and clearing 28 balls, he helped England reach the semi-finals and secure third place despite a high-scoring loss to France.
Pau Cubarsí | Spain
At just 19, Cubarsí played every minute for Spain, anchoring a backline that conceded a single goal across the tournament. He achieved 96% passing accuracy, with 640 completed passes and 33 clearances. His strong defensive presence was key to Spain’s success, earning him the Young Player of the Tournament.
Pedro Porro | Spain
Despite a tough club season, Porro shined internationally, combining offensive runs with solid defense. He scored twice, maintained 91% passing accuracy over six matches, and delivered the assist for the winning goal in the final. His performance earned him Man of the Match honors in the semi-final against France.
Midfielders
Rodri | Spain
After a difficult injury comeback at Manchester City, Rodri dominated Spain’s midfield, controlling possession and disrupting opposing attacks. His standout displays came in the semi-final and final, helping protect the defense and dictate the game's rhythm. He was named Player of the Tournament, receiving the Golden Ball.
Jude Bellingham | England
Bellingham impressed as England’s top performer, scoring seven goals and assisting once in eight matches. His two braces in knockout rounds propelled England to third place. He surpassed Harry Kane’s previous English record for most World Cup goals in a single tournament, proving why Real Madrid invested heavily in him.
Michael Olise | France
Olise switched roles from winger to playmaker during the tournament, unlocking new attacking options for France. He finished with seven assists in eight games, breaking Pelé’s World Cup assist record. Though he didn’t score, Olise’s creativity was central to France reaching the semi-finals.
Forwards
Erling Haaland | Norway
Haaland debuted at the World Cup with Norway, having already been key in qualifying by scoring 16 goals in eight games. He netted seven goals over five matches, including a brace that knocked out Brazil in the Round of 16, pushing Norway into the quarter-finals.
Kylian Mbappé | France
Mbappé replicated his previous tournament form by winning the Golden Boot with 10 goals in seven games. He became the World Cup’s all-time top scorer with 22 career goals, surpassing Lionel Messi. His efforts led France to the semi-finals, where they lost to Spain. Mbappé also scored twice in the thrilling third-place match against England.
Lionel Messi | Argentina
At 39, Messi defied expectations by driving Argentina to the final. He scored eight goals and provided four assists in seven games, including a hat trick in the group opener. Messi's decisive contributions in knockout rounds kept Argentina alive and competitive until the final. Likely his last World Cup, he reminded everyone why he is one of the greatest ever.
