The World Cup 2026 may have ended, but Spain’s historic campaign is still the talk today. After winning their second World Cup trophy after a dramatic extra-time victory over Argentina, La Roja have been the foundation of the best XI of the tournament.
The 2026 edition had 48 nations and was held in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Spain had one of the most successful defensive campaigns in World Cup history, conceding just one goal throughout the tournament before defeating Argentina in the final. Spain got most no of player in fifa world cup best eleven but future star Lamine Yamal could not manage to get into best 11 of world-cup after winning the worldcup trrophy
Gregor Kobel – Switzerland
Gregor Kobel was one of the most prominent goalkeepers in the tournament. The Swiss star played a big role in his team’s run to the quarter-finals, stepping out of Yann Sommer’s shadow and establishing himself as one of the world’s leading goalkeepers.
He kept three clean sheets and was particularly impressive in Switzerland’s penalty shootout victory over Colombia in the Round of 16. His crucial save from Cucho Hernández helped Switzerland through after a tense goalless draw.
Djed Spence – England
Djed Spence was one of the tournament’s biggest surprises. Playing at left-back, he combined defensive strength with explosive attacking runs and played a big role in England’s third place run.
His ability to handle dangerous opponents, including Lionel Messi, was one of the highlights of his campaign.
Aymeric Laporte – Spain
Laporte was able to provide experience and leadership in Spain’s defence. His ball handling ability and his ability to organise the backline in defense was crucial to Spain’s extraordinary defensive record.
Pau Cubarsí – Spain
At just 19, Pau Cubarsí has been among the world’s brightest young defenders. His partnership with Laporte was central to Spain’s success and his performances earned him the FIFA Best Young Player award.
Marc Cucurella – Spain
Cucurella brought energy and intensity to Spain’s left flank. His defensive work was particularly important in the final, where he completed the full 120 minutes against Argentina.
Rodri – Spain
Rodri was the heartbeat in Spain’s midfield and was awarded the Golden Ball as the best player in the tournament. His passing, control and ability to dictate the tempo ensured that Spain were never beaten in their entire campaign.
Jude Bellingham – England
Bellingham enjoyed a record-breaking tournament, scoring seven goals to become England’s highest scorer in a single World Cup or European Championship campaign. His spectacular late solo goal in England’s 6-4 victory over France in the Bronze Final was the perfect finish to his tournament.
Lionel Messi – Argentina
Messi was still the creative leader of Argentina at 39. Despite losing the final, he won the Silver Ball and Silver Boot after helping Argentina achieve their second consecutive World Cup final.
Michael Olise – France
Olise was one of the tournament’s most creative players with seven assists. His ability to unlock defences made him a key figure in France’s run to the Bronze Final.
Erling Haaland – Norway
Haaland took Norway’s emerging golden generation to the quarter-finals. His goalscoring ability remained a key part of Norway’s campaign, but the team did not have enough support around the star striker.
Kylian Mbappé – France
Mbappé was probably the tournament's most devastating forward. He scored 10 goals in eight games to win the Golden Boot and became the first player to win the award at consecutive World Cups.
Mbappé scored twice during the comeback attempt even in France’s Bronze Final defeat to England. His performances only cemented his status as one of the defining players in World Cup history.
