Ranking the Top 25 Players from the 2026 World Cup
The 2026 World Cup has wrapped up, with Spain lifting the trophy for the second time in their history. The tournament's popularity soared, especially in the United States where most of the matches were held. Fans witnessed some of the world's finest players on soccer’s grandest stage. Yet, presence alone didn't guarantee greatness.
Top Performers at the 2026 World Cup
True stars rise in defining moments, and these 25 players made a significant impact during the competition.
25) Fabian Ruiz, Spain
Ruiz’s influence became evident once he was added to Spain’s starting lineup in the knockout stages. His contributions helped secure tight victories, although limited playtime before then kept him from ranking higher.
24) Julián Quiñones, Mexico
As Mexico’s main goal scorer, Quiñones nearly eliminated England in the round of 16 with his sharp finishing.
23) Ismaila Sarr, Senegal
Scoring four goals, including a remarkable strike against Belgium, Sarr combined athleticism with clinical execution.
22) Folarin Balogun, United States
Balogun’s early tournament scoring was impressive, though a late political controversy overshadowed his performance.
21) Diogo Costa, Portugal
Costa stood out as one of the best keepers despite Portugal’s early exit. His goalkeeping kept Portugal competitive against Spain in the round of 16.
20) William Saliba, France
Saliba's injury early in the semifinal against Spain shifted France’s defensive stability, highlighting his importance.
19) Unai Simon, Spain
Simon won the Golden Glove and conceded only one goal all tournament, crucial for Spain’s triumph.
18) Dani Olmo, Spain
Olmo’s precise passing created numerous chances, assisting key goals such as Porro’s against France and Yamal’s in the final.
17) Lamine Yamal, Spain
Although not living up to pre-tournament hype physically, Yamal was a constant threat on the wing and contributed defensively.
16) Dayot Upamecano, France
Upamecano’s return stabilized France’s defense immediately, sparking questions about why he missed earlier matches.
15) Achraf Hakimi, Morocco
Despite strong overall play, Hakimi struggled during Morocco’s loss to France, limiting his ranking.
14) Vinicius Junior, Brazil
Vinicius was a bright spot on an otherwise disappointing Brazil team, consistently dangerous in attack.
13) Mikel Oyarzabal, Spain
Oyarzabal’s role extended beyond scoring, using his movement and defense to create space and disrupt opponents.
12) Pedro Porro, Spain
Porro shone in the semifinals with a goal and solid defensive work, critical throughout Spain’s campaign.
11) Michael Olise, France
Olise set a record with seven assists but fell short on scoring himself, still a key playmaker for France.
10) Declan Rice, England
Rice led England admirably, even while battling illness, playing a major part in securing third place.
9) Harry Kane, England
Kane remained England’s top scorer with six goals despite struggles in the knockout rounds.
8) Ousmane Dembele, France
Dembele scored six times and had several standout moments but faltered against Spain, impacting France’s final run.
7) Jude Bellingham, England
Bellingham broke records with seven World Cup goals, delivering crucial strikes, including two vital goals against Mexico.
6) Aymeric Laporte, Spain
Laporte anchored Spain’s defense with skill and leadership, influencing teammates like Cubarsi throughout the tournament.
5) Erling Haaland, Norway
Haaland’s goal drought ended Norway’s hopes, but leading Norway past Brazil secured him a spot among the tournament’s best.
4) Rodri, Spain
Coming back from ACL surgery, Rodri captained Spain to victory and earned the Golden Ball for his exceptional performances.
3) Pau Cubarsi, Spain
The teenage FIFA Young Player Award winner was pivotal in the final, containing Argentina’s stars and earning a red card that doomed their chances.
2) Kylian Mbappé, France
Mbappé’s two goals in the third-place match pushed him to 22 World Cup goals and a second consecutive Golden Boot.
1) Lionel Messi, Argentina
At 39, Messi delivered some of the tournament’s most memorable moments, driving Argentina’s comebacks and finishing with eight goals. His impact went beyond stats, sealing his legacy in what is likely his last World Cup.
Memorable Moments and Celebrations
Spain’s victory sparked massive celebrations, with fans flooding Madrid’s Cibeles Square to greet the champions. The streets filled with joy and pride as the team paraded the trophy after a thrilling tournament hosted largely in the U.S.
