Spain Starlets Highlight FIFA’s Official 2026 World Cup Team of the Tournament

By Zee Dladla | 22.07.2026 | Sports Last Updated On 22.07.2026

Spain Starlets Highlight FIFA’s Official 2026 World Cup Team of the Tournament

FIFA has released its official Team of the Tournament for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Spain headlining the XI as the champions and supplying three players to the final lineup.

Chosen in a 4-3-3 shape, the squad brings together standout performers from seven different countries after the tournament wrapped up across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Spain’s triumph is represented by full-backs Marc Cucurella and Pedro Porro, alongside midfield general Rodri, whose influence was central to La Roja’s march toward a second World Cup crown.

Argentina, finishing as runners-up, also claim two places in the team. Captain Lionel Messi is selected for the forward line following a standout campaign in which he delivered eight goals and four assists, while Lisandro Martínez earns a spot at centre-back.

France features prominently as well, with three players included. Kylian Mbappé, the tournament’s leading scorer, is joined by Michael Olise and central defender Dayot Upamecano, after impressive individual runs.

England midfielder Jude Bellingham completes the middle of the park following another impactful World Cup, and Norway striker Erling Haaland is named as the centre-forward after his prolific goal-scoring output.

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha rounds out the selection, recognised for becoming one of the tournament’s most memorable success stories with a string of strong performances between the posts.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Team of the Tournament (4-3-3):

Defenders: Marc Cucurella (Spain), Dayot Upamecano (France), Lisandro Martínez (Argentina), Pedro Porro (Spain)

Midfielders: Jude Bellingham (England), Rodri (Spain), Michael Olise (France)

Forwards: Lionel Messi (Argentina), Erling Haaland (Norway), Kylian Mbappé (France)

Written by Staff Writer

Zibuyile began her media journey as a sales intern at Mediamark (Kagiso Media) before moving into digital content creation for ZAlebs.com. Over four years, she helped evolve the platform from a simple blog into one of South Africa's leading independent entertainment news sites.

Following ZAlebs' transition to Celebrity Worx in 2016, Zibuyile was promoted to Executive Editor, recognized for her sharp audience insight and ability to match editorial with branded content. Highlights of her time include a Bookmark Award nomination, judging TLC's Next Great Presenter, reporting from the MTV EMAs, and building partnerships with radio stations like YFM, Cliff Central, and Good Hope FM.

Her editorial work also expanded to include fast-growing digital verticals—such as lifestyle tech, online entertainment, and gambling-related content—tailored to evolving reader interests and brand opportunities.

Published on 22.07.2026
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