Opta names select World Cup Team of the Tournament
Opta has released its World Cup Team of the Tournament, featuring several prominent players. The selections include Lisandro Martinez of Manchester United, as well as key players who departed Arsenal and Chelsea this summer.
Among the notable inclusions is Spain‘s Rodri, who registered the most accurate passes in the competition with 756. This tally also marks the highest number of successful passes ever recorded in a single World Cup edition. Rodri also led in carries with 164 and line-breaking passes with 122.
Marc Cucurella, another Spanish player, was recognized for leading full-backs in successful final third passes (142) and successful passes (382). He also ranked second in touches within the opposition box with 19.
Leandro Trossard was highlighted for his offensive contributions, scoring two goals and providing two assists. He also created 17 chances from open play, more than any other player in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Erling Haaland, with seven goals from 120 touches, averaged a goal every 17.1 touches, placing him second on record for players scoring five or more goals in a single tournament since 1966.
Defensive Selections and Key Performers
The defensive lineup features Cristian Romero of Argentina. Romero’s performance in the semifinal against England was particularly noted, and his attacking contributions aided Argentina‘s progression in the initial knockout rounds.
Aymeric Laporte of Spain also made the team. Laporte’s composed play was seen as a steadying influence on Spain‘s aggressive defensive line, playing a significant role in the team’s strong defensive record.
Pedro Porro, also from Spain, scored two goals. Porro’s inclusion followed a strong showing where he established an effective partnership with Lamine Yamal and was a valuable contributor across all phases of play.
In goal, Orlando Gill of Paraguay was selected. Despite a challenging start, Gill recorded back-to-back clean sheets to help Paraguay advance to the round of 32. He became a national hero by saving penalties against Germany in a shootout, which marked Germany‘s first loss in a World Cup penalty shootout. Gill ended the tournament with the most saves (23) and prevented the most goals (2.6), as revealed by Opta.
Midfield and Attacking Talent
The midfield includes Michael Olise of France, who provided seven assists. Olise set a new record for the most assists in a single World Cup, surpassing a previous record that had stood for 56 years. His vision and composure were highlighted as key attributes.
Jude Bellingham of England also features, scoring seven goals and providing one assist. Bellingham was a dominant force in England‘s knockout stage victories, particularly in the triumph at Aztecan altitude.
Kylian Mbappé of France was recognized for winning the Golden Boot and becoming the all-time leading goalscorer in the competition’s history. Lionel Messi of Argentina ranked first for big chances created and key passes per game, and second for goals scored and successful dribbles per game.
Unai Simon, Spain‘s goalkeeper, won the Golden Glove award and recorded the highest save percentage. His proactive approach supported Spain‘s high defensive line. Pau Cubarsi, also from Spain, led the tournament in touches, successful passes, and clearances, and was awarded the FIFA Young Player Award. Marc Guehi of England contributed to his team’s third-place finish with his composure and defending. Declan Rice, among central midfielders, ranked first for key passes per game and had three goal involvements.
Spain was crowned 2026 FIFA World Cup champions after defeating Argentina in the final.
Source: bbc.com
