Lionel Messi named IFFHS best player; FIFA unveils World Cup 2026 Dream XI
The International Federation of Football History & Statistics (IFFHS) announced that Lionel Messi was the best player of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing an average of 8.33 performance points per match, eight goals and four assists across Argentina’s run to the final. The IFFHS decision contrasts with FIFA’s official awards, which gave the tournament’s Golden Ball to Spain’s midfielder Rodri.
FIFA later released the fan‑voted “Dream XI” for the tournament. The eleven includes Cape Verde’s goalkeeper Vozinha, defenders Pedro Porro (Spain), Marc Cucurella (Spain), Lisandro Martínez (Argentina) and Dayot Upamecano (France). The midfield trio is Rodri (Spain), Michael Olise (France) and Jude Bellingham (England). The forward line features Messi (Argentina), Kylian Mbappé (France) and Erling Haaland (Norway). Spain were crowned world champions after beating Argentina 1‑0 in the final, securing their first title since 2010.
These selections highlight the statistical excellence recognized by the IFFHS and the popular appeal captured in FIFA’s Dream XI, underscoring the tournament’s impact on players from across the globe.