We are here with our FIFA World Cup Round of 32 Best XI Team. The 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 delivered everything football fans could ask for, dramatic comebacks, extra-time thrillers, dominant victories and unforgettable individual performances. With the knockout stage now in full swing, several players rose above the rest to guide their nations into the Round of 16.
Here is our FIFA World Cup Round of 32 Best XI, lined up in an attacking 3-4-1-2 formation, featuring stars who made the biggest impact in their respective matches.
Formation: 3-4-1-2
Goalkeeper: Orlando Gill (Paraguay)
Paraguay's penalty shootout victory over Germany would not have been possible without Orlando Gill. The goalkeeper produced a series of outstanding saves throughout normal time and extra time before keeping his composure in the shootout. His commanding presence, shot-stopping ability and confidence under pressure made him arguably the standout goalkeeper of the Round of 32 as Paraguay secured one of the tournament's biggest upsets.
Defenders
William Saliba (France)
France cruised to an emphatic victory over Sweden, and William Saliba was once again the defensive leader at the back. The Arsenal centre-back completely neutralised Sweden's attack with his excellent positioning, aerial dominance and calm distribution from defence. His commanding display helped France record another convincing knockout win.
Gabriel (Brazil)
Brazil needed a comeback victory against Japan, and Gabriel played a huge role at both ends of the pitch. Defensively, he remained rock solid during Japan's dangerous counter-attacks, while his physical presence helped Brazil regain control after falling behind. His leadership was vital as Brazil progressed to the next round.
Lisandro Martínez (Argentina)
Argentina survived an incredible scare against Cape Verde in one of the tournament's most entertaining matches. Lisandro Martínez delivered another outstanding performance, scoring in extra time while producing several crucial defensive interventions throughout the game. Although Argentina eventually advanced via a late own goal, Martínez's all-round display was instrumental in keeping the world champions alive.
Midfielders
Pedro Porro (Spain)
Pedro Porro was outstanding during Spain's comfortable victory over Austria. Constantly pushing forward from the right flank, he combined defensive discipline with dangerous attacking runs, creating multiple opportunities while helping Spain dominate possession from start to finish.
Youri Tielemans (Belgium)
Belgium produced one of the greatest comebacks of the Round of 32 against Senegal, and Youri Tielemans was the hero. After scoring the equaliser, he kept his nerve to convert the decisive late penalty in extra time, completing an incredible turnaround from two goals down. His leadership and composure under pressure earned him a deserved place in this Best XI.
Casemiro (Brazil)
The experienced Brazilian midfielder once again demonstrated why he remains one of football's elite defensive midfielders. Casemiro controlled the midfield battle, protected Brazil's defence superbly and also contributed with a crucial headed goal, becoming one of Brazil's oldest World Cup goalscorers in the process.
Anthony Gordon (England)
Anthony Gordon provided England with energy, pace and creativity during their comeback victory over DR Congo. His relentless running caused constant problems for the opposition defence, while his attacking movement created space for Harry Kane to make the decisive impact in the second half.
Attacking Midfielder
Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Even at 39 years old, Lionel Messi continues to define greatness. The Argentine captain opened the scoring against Cape Verde and constantly orchestrated his team's attacks throughout an exhausting extra-time contest. His corner also led to the decisive winning goal, while he extended his remarkable World Cup scoring streak and broke yet more tournament records.
Forwards
Kylian Mbappé (France)
France's dominant victory over Sweden was inspired by another sensational performance from Kylian Mbappé. The French superstar tormented defenders with his pace, movement and finishing, scoring multiple goals as France comfortably booked their place in the Round of 16. His clinical display further strengthened his case as one of the favourites for the Golden Boot.
Harry Kane (England)
England looked to be heading for a major upset against DR Congo before Harry Kane stepped up when it mattered most. The captain scored twice in the second half to complete England's comeback and once again proved why he remains one of the world's deadliest finishers in knockout football.
Final Thoughts
This Round of 32 Best XI perfectly captures the excitement of the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup. From Orlando Gill's heroics in goal to Lionel Messi's brilliance and the clinical finishing of Kylian Mbappé and Harry Kane, these players delivered when their countries needed them most.
With the Round of 16 now set, fans can expect even higher-quality football as the race to become 2026 FIFA World Cup champions continues.
