FIFA World Cup 2026: Best XI of the Tournament

The 2026 FIFA World Cup wrapped up on July 20th with Spain edging Argentina 1-0 after extra time, capturing their second World Cup title. While many established stars shone bright, several newcomers made a significant impact throughout the tournament.

Goalkeeper

Unai Simón | SpainSimón stood tall as Spain’s last line of defense. Acting as a sweeper-keeper, he managed to concede just one goal during the entire tournament. The Spanish defense played high, and Simón’s role went beyond shot-stopping; he often rushed out to intercept danger. He completed 10 saves with a 90.9% save rate and set a new World Cup record by keeping seven clean sheets. His efforts earned him the Adidas Golden Glove award.

Defenders

Marc Cucurella | SpainCucurella was a relentless force on the left flank. He combined speed, attacking runs, and solid defending to trouble opponents. Playing every minute, he maintained a 92% pass accuracy, contributed two assists, and was key in Spain conceding only once during the tournament.

Marc Guéhi | EnglandGuéhi anchored England's backline impressively. Despite England's high-scoring third-place match loss to France, they were otherwise defensively sound. Guéhi started six matches, boasting a 97% passing accuracy, winning most duels, and making 28 clearances. His performances helped England secure the bronze medal.

Pau Cubarsí | SpainAt 19, Cubarsí played every game and partnered Aymeric Laporte in a defense that allowed just one goal in seven matches. Completing 640 passes at 96% accuracy and making 33 clearances, he was vital to Spain’s title run and earned the Young Player of the Tournament honor.

Pedro Porro | SpainPorro’s club struggles didn’t show on the international stage. Like Cucurella, he attacked strongly while supporting the defense. Scoring two goals and assisting the final’s winning goal, Porro maintained a 91% pass accuracy across six games. He earned Man of the Match in the semi-final versus France.

Midfielders

Rodri | SpainAfter an injury-hit season at Manchester City, Rodri regained form on the biggest stage. He controlled Spain’s midfield, dictated pace, and disrupted opposition attacks, especially in the semi-final and final. His commanding displays earned him the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player.

Jude Bellingham | EnglandBellingham dazzled for England, scoring seven goals and providing one assist in eight games. His braces against Mexico and Norway proved crucial in England securing third place. He also broke the record for most goals by an Englishman in a single World Cup, surpassing Harry Kane’s 2018 haul.

Michael Olise | FranceOlise’s creativity stood out. Starting as a right winger, he shifted into a playmaker role mid-tournament, unlocking opportunities for Mbappé. He recorded seven assists in eight games, breaking Pelé’s World Cup assist record, despite not scoring himself.

Forwards

Erling Haaland | NorwayMaking his World Cup debut, Haaland scored seven goals in five games. His brace against Brazil knocked out one of the tournament favorites. Haaland’s powerful presence helped Norway reach the quarter-finals, ending a 28-year World Cup absence for his country.

Kylian Mbappé | FranceMbappé delivered again, netting 10 goals in seven matches to claim the Golden Boot. He became the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history with 22 goals, surpassing Lionel Messi. Mbappé led France to the semi-finals, scoring twice in the high-scoring third-place match against England.

Lionel Messi | ArgentinaAt 39, Messi defied expectations, scoring eight goals and assisting four in seven matches. His hat-trick in the opener and consistent clutch performances propelled Argentina to the final. This likely was his last World Cup, leaving fans with one more unforgettable display of his brilliance.