Spain leads FIFA World Cup Best XI with three players; Cape Verde’s Vozinha included
Following their victory in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Spain has the most players represented in FIFA’s official Team of the Tournament, with three selections. The team was announced after the conclusion of the global competition, which was held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The chosen squad, set up in a 4-3-3 formation, highlights top performers from seven different nations.
The world champions, Spain, contributed full-backs Marc Cucurella and Pedro Porro, along with midfielder Rodri. Their performances were central to Spain’s successful campaign. Rodri, who did not score in the final or provide the winning assist, was crucial in controlling the game’s tempo, protecting the defense, and enabling his teammates to take offensive risks. His authority was particularly notable given his recovery from a ruptured knee ligament less than two years before the tournament. Rodri received FIFA’s Golden Ball as the competition’s best player and completed 790 passes, a record for a single World Cup.
Tournament Standouts and Key Contributions
France also had three players in the team, despite not reaching the final. Kylian Mbappé and Michael Olise were selected for the attacking trio, while Dayot Upamecano was recognized for his defensive efforts. Mbappé, who scored 10 goals to win the Golden Boot, also became the competition’s all-time leading scorer with 22 career World Cup goals at the age of 27. He achieved this milestone across three World Cups, scoring four times in 2018, eight in 2022, and 10 in 2026.
Argentina, who were runners-up to Spain in the final, had two players included. Veteran captain Lionel Messi earned a spot in attack after another impactful World Cup campaign, and Lisandro Martínez was recognized for his defensive contributions. Messi, at 39 years old, scored eight goals and provided four assists as Argentina reached their second consecutive final. Despite his efforts, Argentina lost 1-0 after extra time in the final, which was played at the New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19.
England’s Jude Bellingham was named in midfield following a series of impressive performances. Norway’s Erling Haaland was also selected as one of the tournament’s leading goalscorers. These players were among those who made significant impacts, with some returning from serious injuries, breaking records, or leading smaller nations to notable achievements.
Defensive Strength and Unexpected Heroes
Completing the Team of the Tournament is Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha. His performances were considered one of the competition’s biggest surprises. Vozinha, a 40-year-old, represented an island nation making its first appearance at the World Cup. In Cape Verde’s opening match against Spain, he made seven saves from 27 shots, helping his team secure a goalless draw and their first World Cup point.
Cape Verde advanced from their group in their debut, becoming the least populous nation to reach the knockout stage. They later came from behind twice against Argentina before losing 3-2 after extra time in the Round of 32. Vozinha’s campaign highlighted the ability of Cape Verde’s players to compete at the highest level, with strong showings against Spain, Uruguay, and Argentina.
Spain’s triumph was also built on strong defensive discipline. Goalkeeper Unai Simón won the Golden Glove after keeping seven clean sheets in eight matches, a record for a goalkeeper in a single men’s World Cup. Spain conceded only one goal throughout the entire tournament. Additionally, 19-year-old defender Pau Cubarsí was named the tournament’s Best Young Player by FIFA, completing 566 passes and demonstrating his importance in building attacks from the back.
The final match saw Ferran Torres and Nico Williams, introduced from the bench, combine for the decisive goal in the 106th minute. Williams created the opportunity, and Torres scored, leading Spain to a 1-0 victory after extra time. This marked Spain’s second World Cup title, reclaiming the trophy they last won in 2010.
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Source: channelstv.com
