2026 World Cup: FIFA Unveils Team of the Tournament
FIFA names Best XI after Spain’s World Cup triumph, featuring Messi, Mbappe, Haaland and Bellingham.
FIFA has unveiled its official Team of the Tournament following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, recognising the standout performers from the global football showpiece co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Newly crowned world champions Spain had three players included in the Best XI after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in the final to secure their second FIFA World Cup title.
The Spanish trio comprises midfielder Rodri, right-back Pedro Porro and left-back Marc Cucurella, all of whom played key roles in La Roja’s successful campaign.
Despite finishing as runners-up, Argentina also earned two places in the tournament’s best team, with captain Lionel Messi and central defender Lisandro Martinez making the final selection after another impressive World Cup campaign.
France, who were eliminated in the semi-finals, produced the highest number of players in the Best XI. Star forward Kylian Mbappe was joined by defender Dayot Upamecano and winger Michael Olise following their outstanding performances throughout the tournament.
Norway striker Erling Haaland was selected to lead the attack after an impressive goalscoring display, while England midfielder Jude Bellingham emerged as his country’s only representative in the prestigious lineup.
One of the biggest surprises in the selection was Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, whose remarkable performances between the posts earned widespread praise from fans and football analysts during the competition.
The Team of the Tournament reflects the players who consistently delivered exceptional performances and made significant contributions to their respective national teams during the month-long championship.
Spain’s triumph marked their second World Cup title, adding to their historic success in 2010. Their victory over Argentina capped an impressive tournament in which they combined disciplined defending with creative attacking football.
FIFA’s Best XI serves as recognition of individual excellence, celebrating players whose performances stood out regardless of how far their teams progressed in the competition.
The 2026 World Cup concluded with memorable matches, outstanding individual displays and several surprise packages, reinforcing the tournament’s reputation as football’s biggest global event. The announcement of the Team of the Tournament brings the curtain down on another unforgettable edition of the FIFA World Cup, honouring the players who left the greatest mark on the competition.
Related stories
Sports
World Cup: Spain Have Earned Their Place in Football History — FIFA President Infantino
Infantino says Spain’s World Cup triumph secures a lasting place in football history for generations to come.
Sports
World Cup: Reactions Trail Calls for FIFA President Gianni Infantino to Resign After Spain’s Triumph
Mixed reactions greet calls for FIFA President Gianni Infantino to resign after Spain’s World Cup victory.
Sports
World Cup: FIFA Warns Super Eagles Ahead of 2030 Tournament
FIFA says Super Eagles need stability and strong football structures to qualify for the 2030 World Cup.
Sports
Trump Poses With Spain's World Cup Winners at White House
Donald Trump welcomed Spain's World Cup-winning squad to the White House, congratulating the team after their victory over Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final and posing with the players and the trophy.
Comments (0)
Leave a comment
All comments are moderated before publishing. Your email is never published.