As the curtain falls on a spectacular tournament, The Daily Star Sport team unveils its definitive World Cup Best XI. Lining up in a dynamic 4-3-3 formation, this star-studded lineup balances elite tactical discipline with unstoppable attacking flair.
From Vozinha’s heroic presence in goal to a powerhouse midfield anchored by Rodri, every inclusion earned their spot. Up front, the terrifying trio of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Erling Haaland guarantees goals.
With the highest four from Spain, three from Argentina, one each from England, France, Norway, and tournament debutants Cape Verde, it’s a dream team truly worthy of the grandest stage.
Here is the Best XI:
GK: Vozinha
RB: Pedro Porro
LB: Marc Cucurella
CB: Pau Cubarsi
CB: Lisandro Martinez
CM: Rodri
LCM: Jude Bellingham
RCM: Enzo Fernandez
RW: Lionel Messi
LW: Kylian Mbappe
CF: Erling Haaland
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Vozinha (Cape Verde)
The Cape Verde goalkeeper produced two scintillating performances against the eventual finalists, Spain and Argentina. With two clean sheets and 4.2 saves per 90 minutes, Vozinha makes the cut thanks to his immense impact.
Marc Cucurella (Spain)
A relentless force at the back, Marc Cucurella has been instrumental in Spain keeping six clean sheets in seven matches before the final. He also chipped in with two assists.
Pedro Porro (Spain)
Alongside his defensive responsibilities, Pedro Porro has consistently supported Lamine Yamal down the right flank. He also scored two decisive goals.
Pau Cubarsi (Spain)
At just 19, Pau Cubarsi has become the backbone of Spain's defence. His maturity and composure have been among the key reasons behind La Roja's run to the final, with Spain conceding just one goal before the showpiece.
Lisandro Martinez (Argentina)
32 clearances, 11 tackles and 15 recoveries -- the numbers speak volumes about Lisandro Martinez's contribution to Argentina's defence. He has also chipped in with a crucial goal and an assist.
Rodri (Spain)
Rodri has completed 648 of his 694 passes for a 93% accuracy rate and has 16 defensive linebreaks attempted beside his name in the tournament. He has been the central cog in Spain's midfield dominance.
Jude Bellingham (England)
Helping England finish third, Jude Bellingham became the first midfielder to score seven goals in a single edition of the World Cup. The Real Madrid star also registered one assist.
Enzo Fernandez (Argentina)
Enzo Fernandez grew into the tournament with every game, saving his best performances for the business end. He scored twice, with both crucial strikes helping Argentina come from behind in knockout-stage victories.
Kylian Mbappe (France)
With 10 goals and four assists, Kylian Mbappe has recorded the most goal involvements in a single World Cup edition since 1966. He also reached 22 World Cup goals in just as many appearances.
Erling Haaland (Norway)
Seven goals in five matches, including two that knocked Brazil out in the round of 16, helped Erling Haaland guide Norway to their first-ever World Cup quarterfinal.
Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Before the final, Argentina captain Lionel Messi had amassed eight goals and four assists, remaining firmly in the race for the Golden Boot. At 39, he stepped up whenever his side needed him.
COACH
Luis de la Fuente (Spain)
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente guided La Roja to the final on the back of a 37-match unbeaten run. It is Spain's first World Cup final since lifting their only title in 2010.
