2026 World Cup Team of the Tournament.

GOAL's 2026 World Cup Team of the Tournament

The 2026 World Cup has concluded after five thrilling weeks, setting records with 104 matches played and 308 goals scored. Hosted across three North American countries, this World Cup was the largest ever, featuring 48 teams. Ultimately, the final battle was between the world's two top-ranked teams: Spain and Argentina. Despite a fiercely contested final, it was Spain that claimed victory with Ferran Torres' decisive extra-time goal.

Golden Boot Race

The Golden Boot race was fiercely contested, with Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, and Jude Bellingham all vying for the title. Kylian Mbappe emerged victorious, not only for the 2026 edition but also as the all-time top scorer in World Cup history.

Best XI from the 2026 World Cup

Goalkeeper

GK: Vozinha (Cape Verde)

1. Vozinha, Cape Verde's 40-year-old goalkeeper, became a cult hero. His performance in the group stage, particularly in the goalless draw against eventual champions Spain, was instrumental in Cape Verde’s progression to the knockout rounds.

Defense

RB: Pedro Porro (Spain)

1. Pedro Porro's World Cup was transformative. Initially not Spain's starter, he solidified his place with standout performances from the round of 32 onwards, contributing both defensively and offensively.

CB: Pau Cubarsi (Spain)

1. At just 19, Pau Cubarsi emerged as the standout center-half. His defensive prowess and composure were key to Spain's success, helping them concede only once throughout the tournament.

CB: Lisandro Martinez (Argentina)

1. Lisandro Martinez represented Argentina's tenacity. His defensive skills and crucial moments in attack, including an assist and a goal, were vital, although his final was cut short by injury.

LB: Marc Cucurella (Spain)

1. Marc Cucurella was a defensive rock for Spain. His ability to shut down opponents like Dembele and Olise and his offensive contributions made him a standout performer.

Midfield

DM: Rodri (Spain)

1. Rodri's midfield masterclass was pivotal for Spain. His exceptional passing and defensive contributions earned him the Golden Ball award as the tournament's best player.

CM: Jude Bellingham (England)

1. Jude Bellingham was England's savior, contributing 35% of the team's goals. His performances, particularly against Mexico, showcased his knack for clutch moments.

AM: Michael Olise (France)

1. Michael Olise shone in a No.10 role, delivering dazzling performances and setting a new World Cup record with seven assists, including a standout display against Sweden.

Forwards

RW: Lionel Messi (Argentina)

1. At 39, Messi continued to defy expectations, leading Argentina to the final with six group stage goals and crucial assists in the knockout rounds.

ST: Erling Haaland (Norway)

1. Haaland made an impressive World Cup debut, driving Norway's historic run with key goals against Brazil and others, confirming his world-class status.

LW: Kylian Mbappe (France)

1. Kylian Mbappe, the tournament's top scorer, continued to impress on the world stage. Despite France's semi-final exit, he became the all-time leading World Cup scorer at just 27.

This team of the tournament showcases a blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars, all of whom left an indelible mark on the 2026 World Cup.