Kylian Mbappe, Rodri, and GOAL's 2026 World Cup Team of the Tournament

2026 World Cup Wrap-Up and Best XI

The 2026 World Cup wrapped up after five intense weeks, featuring a record 104 matches and 308 goals. The tournament, hosted by three North American countries, brought together 48 teams. After many thrilling clashes, the final showdown featured the world’s top two teams: Spain and Argentina.

In a match defined more by physicality than flair, Spain emerged victorious thanks to Ferran Torres’s decisive goal in extra time, leaving Lionel Messi and Argentina heartbroken. This victory marked Spain’s second World Cup title.

The Golden Boot competition was fiercely contested by Messi, France’s Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele, Norway’s Erling Haaland, and England’s Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham. Ultimately, Mbappe claimed the top scorer prize, surpassing all others to become the all-time leading goal-scorer in World Cup history.

Goalkeeper: Vozinha (Cape Verde)

At 40, Vozinha became Cape Verde’s standout player, helping the underdogs reach the knockout stage despite no wins. His seven saves against Spain and an incredible eight against Argentina kept his team competitive. Vozinha has since earned cult hero status and even inspired the name of a new sea creature species.

Right Back: Pedro Porro (Spain)

Porro seized his opportunity after entering the tournament as a backup. Replacing Marcos Llorente in the last-32 round, he never looked back. Porro’s defensive solidity and attacking contributions, including key goals against Austria and France, helped cement his place in the winning squad.

Center Back: Pau Cubarsi (Spain)

Only 19, Cubarsi showed maturity beyond his years. His calmness, composure, and defensive prowess were vital to Spain conceding just once during their campaign. Notably, he contained superstars like Ronaldo, Mbappe, and Messi, earning the Young Player Award.

Center Back: Lisandro Martinez (Argentina)

Despite Argentina’s rocky defensive form, Martinez stood out with his skill on the ball and gritty defending. He assisted Messi and scored a memorable extra-time winner over Cape Verde. Unfortunately, injury cut his final short.

Left Back: Marc Cucurella (Spain)

Cucurella proved he belongs among the world’s elite left-backs. He was rock-solid defensively, not beaten in one-on-one duels before the final, while also supporting attacks with assists and key crosses throughout Spain’s run.

Defensive Midfielder: Rodri (Spain)

The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner, Rodri controlled games with his passing and defensive work. His numbers were staggering: highest duel success rate among midfielders, most line-breaking passes in a final third since 2014, and most passes completed at a World Cup since 1966. His influence earned him the Golden Ball.

Central Midfielder: Jude Bellingham (England)

Bellingham was England’s driving force, scoring 35% of their goals and becoming the nation’s highest scorer in a single World Cup with seven goals. His performances included crucial braces against Mexico and Norway, solidifying his status as a big-game player.

Attacking Midfielder: Michael Olise (France)

A tactical switch unlocked Olise’s talents, moving him to No.10. He dazzled with creativity and flair, especially against Sweden where he provided two stunning assists. Olise finished the tournament with a record seven assists.

Right Winger: Lionel Messi (Argentina)

At 39, Messi defied doubts to dominate the tournament. His six group-stage goals included a brilliant hat-trick against Algeria. He added vital assists in knockout rounds but could not help Argentina overcome Spain in the final. Many view this as further proof of his GOAT status.

Striker: Erling Haaland (Norway)

Haaland made a huge impact in his first major tournament. Scoring multiple goals in group stages and knockout rounds, including a historic brace that knocked Brazil out, he was instrumental in Norway’s strong showing. His talent promises more World Cup appearances ahead.

Left Winger: Kylian Mbappe (France)

Mbappe was spectacular throughout, though France fell in the semi-final to Spain. He scored multiple braces and assists, finishing as the tournament’s top scorer and claiming the Golden Boot. At 27, he is poised to build on his record in future World Cups.