World Cup 2026 Best XI: SN's All-Star Lineup Featuring Haaland and Messi

Spain claimed victory at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but the spotlight this summer belonged to the standout players who left a lasting impression. The tournament ignited excitement and sparked conversations about soccer across North America and worldwide.

Surprisingly, it wasn’t always the most famous stars who shined brightest on the grandest stage. The Sporting News has selected one player per position to form a best XI from the 2026 World Cup, crafting an all-star lineup that reflects the event’s finest performers.

Starting Formation: 4-2-3-1 (Right to Left)

GK: Emi Martinez (Argentina) — RB: Pedro Porro (Spain) — CBs: Pau Cubarsi (Spain), Cristian Romero (Argentina) — LB: Marc Cucurella (Spain) — CMs: Rodri (Spain), Jude Bellingham (England) — RW: Lionel Messi (Argentina), CAM: Michael Olise (France), LW: Kylian Mbappe (France) — ST: Erling Haaland (Norway)

Goalkeeper: Emi Martinez (Argentina)

Though FIFA awarded Unai Simon the Golden Glove, many found that choice puzzling. Emi Martinez outperformed him, making 11 saves in the final alone—more than Simon did throughout the entire tournament. Simon’s long pass accuracy was poor, with only 26.6% success in knockout matches. Martinez, despite battling a broken finger, made 20 saves in total, ranking joint-second behind Orlando Gill of Paraguay, and delivered a monumental performance.

Honorable mentions: Vozinha (Cape Verde), Eloy Room (Curacao)

Right-back: Pedro Porro (Spain)

Pedro Porro stood out as the tournament’s top full-back. His influence on Spain’s right flank was immense, managing high possession flow and excelling defensively. Winning over five duels per game and dominating aerial battles with a 64% success rate, he maintained discipline without any bookings, contributing heavily to Spain’s historic defensive record.

Honorable mention: Achraf Hakimi (Morocco)

Center-backs: Pau Cubarsi (Spain), Cristian Romero (Argentina)

Pau Cubarsi, FIFA’s Young Player of the Tournament, impressed at just 19 years old. He is not only among the best young defenders but ranks highly overall. He completed the second-most passes in the tournament and was outstanding defensively, winning nearly 60% of his ground duels.

Cristian Romero shone for Argentina with strong statistics: 63% success in ground duels and 72% in aerial ones. His crucial tackles and two pivotal goals helped Argentina stage comebacks against Egypt and Cape Verde.

Honorable mentions: Aymeric Laporte (Spain), John Stones (England), Dayot Upamecano (France)

Left-back: Marc Cucurella (Spain)

Marc Cucurella played behind the defensive-minded Alex Baena, yet his attacking contributions were key. He provided two assists, tied for most among defenders, and created three big chances. His performance suggests a seamless fit for Real Madrid.

Honorable mentions: Djed Spence (England), Nuno Mendes (Portugal)

Central Midfielders: Rodri (Spain), Jude Bellingham (England)

Rodri earned FIFA’s Golden Ball after dictating Spain’s rhythm. Not only did he complete the most passes ever recorded in a single World Cup, but he also orchestrated Spain’s play, controlling every phase of their game. His comeback from an ACL injury was remarkable, perhaps hinting at future accolades.

Jude Bellingham combined endurance and skill, leading central midfielders in dribbles completed and finishing with seven goals. He was England’s heartbeat, constantly involved and fouled more than any other player.

Honorable mentions: Ayyoub Bouaddi (Morocco), Declan Rice (England), Dani Olmo (Spain), Bruno Guimaraes (Brazil), Youri Tielemans (Belgium)

Right Wing: Lionel Messi (Argentina)

Even after winning the World Cup in 2022, Messi continued to carry Argentina with brilliance through much of the 2026 tournament. Scoring eight goals, completing 28 dribbles, taking 35 shots, and creating 26 chances, his numbers were staggering. At 39, his performances dazzled fans, further cementing his status as arguably the greatest player ever despite falling short in the final.

Honorable mentions: Yan Diomande (Ivory Coast), Ousmane Dembele (France)

Attacking Midfield: Michael Olise (France)

Michael Olise was the creative core of France’s explosive attack, setting a World Cup record with seven assists. His 18 key passes and seven big chances placed him among the tournament’s elite playmakers. Olise should be considered a serious Ballon d’Or contender moving forward.

Honorable mentions: Martin Odegaard (Norway), Johan Manzambi (Switzerland)

Left Wing: Kylian Mbappe (France)

Mbappe didn’t lift the trophy but was arguably the tournament’s best player. His 10 goals earned him the Golden Boot, making him the first to win multiple World Cup top scorer awards. His individual brilliance and teamwork put him in the conversation as potentially the greatest World Cup player by career’s end.

Honorable mentions: Vinicius Jr (Brazil), Leandro Trossard (Belgium), Luis Diaz (Colombia)

Striker: Erling Haaland (Norway)

Haaland charmed fans off the pitch but was lethal on it. His knack for appearing when it mattered most made him a constant threat. Despite Norway playing only five matches, he scored seven goals, ranking joint-third overall. Haaland was the tournament’s best striker, driving Norway to unprecedented heights.

Honorable mentions: Harry Kane (England), Julian Quinones (Mexico), Ismael Saibari (Morocco)