Meet the Dream Team Set to Dominate the 2026 World Cup | SIFC

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Transcript

This is Sports Illustrated's combined XI for the 2026 World Cup.

In goal, an unexpected choice.

Orlando Hill of Paraguay.

At right back, Pedro Poro — what a tournament, what a revelation, both defensively and going forward.

Absolutely outstanding.

At left back, Marco Correa — there's not much more to add, simply the finest left back of the entire tournament.

At center back, we have Laporte.

Arguably one of the tournament's standout surprises alongside Kubbassy, while the other center back spot goes to Christian Romero, the defensive anchor of Argentina.

In midfield, we have Rhodri — the best player of the tournament, just as Guardiola predicted months ago, saying the World Cup would reveal the true Rhodri.

And then there's.

Leandro Paredes — not his finest showing in the final, but a consistently strong performer throughout the competition.

And just behind the striker, we have a brilliant trio.

In the number 10 role, Jude Bellingham, who netted 7 goals across the tournament.

A record for an English player in a single World Cup, alongside Lionel Messi, likely making his final World Cup appearance — but what a way.

To bow out — on the left wing, Kylian Mbappe, now the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history, claiming the Golden Boot for this tournament. What more can be said?

Last but certainly not least, our striker Erlich Braud Allen, who guided Norway to a historic quarterfinal run at the World Cup.

Brilliant goals, standout displays, and memorable matches throughout.

We're already longing for more of this World Cup.