FIFA World Cup 2026: Best XI of the Tournament

The 2026 FIFA World Cup wrapped up on July 20 with Spain edging out Argentina 1-0 in extra time to claim their second title. While established stars dazzled, a few newcomers also made their mark on the global stage.

Goalkeeper

Unai Simón | SpainSimón was nearly unbeatable in goal. Acting as a sweeper-keeper, he excelled at stopping shots and sweeping up behind a high defensive line. Across the tournament, he conceded only one goal and set a World Cup record with seven clean sheets. His 10 saves came with a 90.9% save rate, earning him the Adidas Golden Glove award and a championship medal.

Defenders

• Marc Cucurella | Spain: The former Chelsea full-back was a constant threat, contributing two assists and showing impressive defensive skills. He played every minute and maintained a 92% pass completion rate, anchoring Spain’s defense that allowed just one goal.
• Marc Guéhi | England: Guéhi stood out for England’s backline, boasting a 97% passing accuracy and winning most of his duels. His 28 clearances helped England reach the semifinals and secure third place.
• Pau Cubarsí | Spain: Just 19, Cubarsí anchored the Spanish defense alongside Aymeric Laporte. He completed 640 passes at 96% accuracy and made 33 clearances. His performances earned him the Young Player of the Tournament honor.
• Pedro Porro | Spain: Despite a challenging club season, Porro was a reliable right-back for Spain. He scored twice, provided the assist for the final’s winning goal, and kept the defense solid throughout the campaign.

Midfielders

• Rodri | Spain: Overcoming doubts due to injury struggles, Rodri controlled Spain’s midfield brilliantly. He dictated tempo, protected the defense, and stifled opponents. His stellar performances earned him the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player.
• Jude Bellingham | England: Bellingham was England’s shining light, netting seven goals and assisting once in eight matches. His two braces in knockout games propelled England to third place, making him the highest-scoring Englishman in a single World Cup.
• Michael Olise | France: Initially starting on the wing, Olise shifted into a playmaker role that unlocked Kylian Mbappé. He supplied seven assists in eight games, breaking Pelé’s record for most assists in a single World Cup.

Forwards

• Erling Haaland | Norway: Making his World Cup debut, Haaland scored seven goals in five games. He led Norway to the quarterfinals, including a stunning upset over Brazil where he scored twice late in the game.
• Kylian Mbappé | France: Mbappé repeated his last World Cup form by scoring 10 goals in seven matches and securing the Golden Boot. He became the tournament’s all-time top scorer with 22 career World Cup goals. His efforts helped France reach the semifinals.
• Lionel Messi | Argentina: At 39, Messi defied expectations with eight goals and four assists in seven matches. He propelled Argentina to the final, delivering key performances in critical moments. Likely his last World Cup, Messi once again showed why he is regarded as one of football’s greatest.