The final whistle has long been blown. The confetti has settled. Spain are celebrating another World Cup triumph.
But football fans around the world have already found something new to argue about.
Who truly deserved to make the Team of the Tournament?
FIFA has finally answered that question by unveiling its official Best XI from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and, as expected, the selection is already sparking conversations across the football world.
From champions Spain to runners-up Argentina, from France’s star-studded squad to surprise package Cape Verde, the final lineup is packed with household names, breakout stars and a few selections that will keep fans debating for weeks.
Spain Lifted The Trophy, But Not The Team Sheet
Winning the World Cup doesn’t always guarantee dominating the Team of the Tournament.
Despite conquering the world after defeating Argentina 1-0 in the final, Spain placed just three players in FIFA’s Best XI.
Midfield general Rodri, attacking full-back Pedro Porro, and ever-reliable Marc Cucurella earned places after playing pivotal roles in La Roja’s title-winning campaign.
For Rodri, the recognition comes as little surprise.
Throughout the tournament, the Manchester City midfielder controlled games with remarkable composure, dictating the tempo and providing the calm that allowed Spain to flourish.
Porro and Cucurella, meanwhile, proved that modern full-backs are no longer just defenders. Their relentless energy, attacking contributions and defensive discipline made them indispensable to Spain’s march to World Cup glory.
Messi Still Finds A Way Into History
Argentina may have surrendered their crown, but Lionel Messi refused to leave the tournament unnoticed.
Even in defeat, the Argentine captain once again found himself among football’s elite.
Messi was selected alongside rugged defender Lisandro Martinez, ensuring the Albiceleste remained well represented despite falling at the final hurdle.
At 39, Messi once again reminded the world why football refuses to stop talking about him.
His vision, leadership and moments of brilliance carried Argentina deep into the competition, even if the fairy-tale ending wasn’t meant to be.
France Dominate The Best XI Despite Missing The Final
Ironically, no country supplied more players to FIFA’s Best XI than France.
Les Bleus saw three of their stars make the prestigious lineup despite suffering heartbreak against eventual champions Spain in the semi-finals.
Kylian Mbappe once again proved why he remains one of football’s biggest superstars, terrorising defences throughout the tournament with his pace and finishing.
He was joined by defensive rock Dayot Upamecano and creative winger Michael Olise, whose performances consistently caught the eye.
Their inclusion serves as a reminder that sometimes outstanding individual displays outshine collective disappointment.
Haaland Finally Gets His World Cup Spotlight
For years, football fans waited to see Erling Haaland on the World Cup stage.
When his opportunity finally arrived, the Norwegian striker didn’t disappoint.
The Manchester City goal machine earned a place as the tournament’s leading striker after delivering the powerful, clinical performances fans have come to expect.
Few defenders managed to contain him.
Even when Norway fell short of lifting the trophy, Haaland left with something every elite striker craves—global recognition.
Cape Verde’s Fairytale Gets A Perfect Ending
Every World Cup produces one story that captures the imagination of neutrals.
This year, that story belonged to Cape Verde.
While the football giants battled for the trophy, veteran goalkeeper Vozinha quietly became one of the tournament’s biggest revelations.
His heroic saves, fearless performances and leadership helped Cape Verde exceed expectations and earned him one of the most remarkable places in FIFA’s Best XI.
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For many fans, his inclusion represents everything the World Cup is about—giving underdogs a stage to become global heroes.
England’s Lone Representative
England’s campaign ended in disappointment, but one player continued to shine.
Jude Bellingham emerged as the nation’s only representative in the Team of the Tournament.
The midfielder once again demonstrated why he is regarded as one of football’s brightest talents, combining maturity, creativity and relentless energy throughout England’s campaign.
His performances ensured England didn’t leave the tournament empty-handed.
A Team That Will Keep Fans Talking
FIFA’s Best XI reflects more than statistics.
It tells the story of a month where legends strengthened their legacy, new heroes emerged, and football once again reminded the world why it remains the planet’s biggest sporting spectacle.
Some fans will celebrate the selections.
Others will question why certain stars missed out.
And perhaps that’s exactly what makes every Team of the Tournament unforgettable.
FIFA Best XI – 2026 World Cup
- Goalkeeper: Vozinha (Cape Verde)
- Defenders: Pedro Porro (Spain), Dayot Upamecano (France), Lisandro Martinez (Argentina), Marc Cucurella (Spain)
- Midfielders: Rodri (Spain), Jude Bellingham (England), Michael Olise (France)
- Forwards: Lionel Messi (Argentina), Erling Haaland (Norway), Kylian Mbappe (France)
The World Cup may be over, but judging by FIFA’s Best XI, the arguments have only just begun.