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 tournament featured some stellar performances from established stars as well as exciting newcomers who left their mark on the global stage.
Goalkeeper
Unai Simón | Spain
Simón was a fortress in goal for Spain, executing the sweeper-keeper role flawlessly. He conceded only one goal throughout the tournament and made 10 saves with an impressive 90.9% save rate. His quick interventions off his line helped neutralize counterattacks as the Spanish defense played high up the pitch. Setting a World Cup record with seven clean sheets, Simón earned the Adidas Golden Glove award as the tournament’s best goalkeeper.
Defenders
Marc Cucurella | Spain
Cucurella stood out on the left flank, combining speed and defensive grit. His ability to surge forward and deliver assists complemented his tough tackling. Playing every minute with a 92% pass accuracy, he contributed two assists while helping Spain concede just once all tournament.
Marc Guéhi | England
England's defensive anchor, Guéhi started six of seven games, boasting a 97% passing accuracy and winning the majority of his duels. He played a key role in England’s run to the semi-finals and their third-place finish, making 28 clearances and consistently strong defensive plays.
Pau Cubarsí | Spain
At just 19, Cubarsí became a World Cup winner and defensive pillar for Spain. Partnering with Aymeric Laporte, he helped keep seven clean sheets and allowed only a single goal. With 96% passing accuracy and 33 clearances, Cubarsí’s composure earned him the Young Player of the Tournament award.
Pedro Porro | Spain
Despite a challenging club season, Porro shone for Spain. His attacking runs and defensive discipline were vital, scoring twice and assisting the winning goal in the final. Porro also earned Man of the Match honors in the semi-final against France.
Midfielders
Rodri | Spain
Recovering from injury doubts, Rodri dominated midfield battles, controlling pace and shielding the defense. His tactical mastery stood out in key knockout matches, especially the semi-final and final. His efforts won him the Player of the Tournament and the Golden Ball.
Jude Bellingham | England
Bellingham was England's standout midfielder, netting seven goals and providing one assist across eight games. He scored two braces in the knockout rounds and became the highest-scoring Englishman in a single World Cup, surpassing Harry Kane’s 2018 record.
Michael Olise | France
Olise transitioned from winger to playmaker for France, sparking creativity behind the striker. He set a new record with seven assists in the tournament, breaking Pelé’s previous mark, and was critical in France reaching the semi-finals despite not scoring himself.
Forwards
Erling Haaland | Norway
Haaland debuted at the World Cup with a bang, scoring seven goals in five matches. His late brace in the Round of 16 knocked out Brazil, marking a major upset. Haaland’s scoring prowess helped Norway reach the quarter-finals for the first time in nearly three decades.
Kylian Mbappé | France
Mbappé repeated his Golden Boot-winning form with 10 goals in seven games. He became the World Cup’s all-time leading scorer, surpassing Lionel Messi with 22 career goals. Despite France losing to Spain in the semi-finals, Mbappé’s effort included a two-goal performance in a thrilling third-place match against England.
Lionel Messi | Argentina
At 39, Messi defied expectations by guiding Argentina to the final almost single-handedly. Scoring eight goals and providing four assists, he produced moments of brilliance throughout the tournament. This likely marked his last World Cup appearance, offering one more display of his enduring magic.
