The World Cup has concluded with Spain triumphing after an incredible tournament.
In the past six weeks across North America, numerous celebrated athletes showcased their phenomenal abilities.
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Credit: Getty
From seasoned players to emerging talents, many athletes have significantly raised their profiles.
As the event wraps up, Tom Barclay from SunSport presents his team of the tournament…
GOALKEEPER: Vozinha, Cape Verde
Shot to fame on social media with a stunning shutout against Spain at the tournament’s beginning.
His remarkable performance in the 0-0 draw with the eventual winners skyrocketed his Instagram following from 50,000 to 29 million.
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The 40-year-old free agent also shone against Lionel Messi’s Argentina—surely someone will want to sign him this summer?
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RIGHT-BACK: Pedro Porro, Spain
Tottenham fans witnessing their club’s Premier League struggles would have never predicted their two right-backs would shine in the World Cup semi-finals.
While Djed Spence could not help England beat Argentina, Porro scored the vital second goal in Spain’s impressive upset of favorites France.
Porro excelled throughout the tournament, and Spurs must be thrilled to have signed him on a lucrative five-year deal during this period.
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CENTRE-BACK: Pau Cubarsi, Spain
A pivotal contributor to a solid Spanish defense that achieved seven clean sheets in eight matches.
Pairing with Aymeric Laporte, Cubarsi displayed outstanding composure and rightfully claimed the accolade of Young Player of the Tournament.
A fantastic prospect from Barca’s La Masia academy, it’s impressive that he’s only 19.
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Credit: Getty
CENTRE-BACK: Dayot Upamecano, France
Didier Deschamps affectionately refers to Upamecano as “the Little Monster” within the squad.
After an impressive Bundesliga season, Harry Kane’s Bayern Munich teammate delivered standout performances throughout the event.
His quickness and ball control were crucial in keeping France’s goals conceded to just two in their first six matches before falling to Spain.
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LEFT-BACK: Marc Cucurella, Spain
The curly-haired Cucurella has enjoyed a remarkable summer.
On the day of Spain’s opening match, where they drew 0-0 against a resilient Cape Verde team, it was announced he would join Real Madrid from Chelsea for £50 million.
This news energized his impressive World Cup performance, as the former Brighton player shone both offensively and defensively while Spain secured the title.
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Credit: Getty
DEFENSIVE MIDFIELD: Rodri, Spain
After a season riddled with injuries, the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner regained form and claimed the Player of the Tournament title.
His exceptional ability to control matches from deep midfield proved vital in aiding Spain’s follow-up triumph after their Euro 2024 success.
Manchester City must be eager to finalize a new deal that allows him to partner with their new £116 million signing, Elliot Anderson.
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DEFENSIVE MIDFIELD: Enzo Fernandez, Argentina
He is a player often under scrutiny—perhaps unfairly.
Still, the Argentina star’s excellence is evident, notably highlighted by his stunning late equalizer against England in the thrilling semi-final.
He slightly disrupted his performance in the final with a reckless red card but was essential in Argentina’s strong pursuit leading up to that point.
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ATTACKING MIDFIELD: Michael Olise, France
Faced criticism for a less impressive performance against Spain in the semi-finals.
However, earlier in the tournament, Olise was brilliant, exhibiting outstanding passing in a No.10 role reminiscent of the best Kevin De Bruyne.
Yet another player that Real Madrid is eyeing this summer, while Bayern Munich teammate Harry Kane hopes this potential blockbuster deal doesn’t materialize.
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Credit: AFP
ATTACKING MIDFIELD: Jude Bellingham, England
A strong answer to those who questioned him before the tournament.
Kane had his moments, but Bellingham was outstanding in knockout matches against Mexico and Norway, netting a brace in each.
With seven goals overall, he emerged as England’s standout player. Although Argentina contained him, it doesn’t diminish his reputation as a world-class talent that fans can enjoy.
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Credit: Getty
STRIKER: Lionel Messi, Argentina
Many had never had the opportunity to see Messi live until that unforgettable night in Atlanta – and some left wishing they hadn’t.
The GOAT defied his impending 40th birthday by scoring two crucial goals to eliminate England.
Moreover, he netted an astonishing eight goals throughout the tournament, consistently delivering for the nation that cherishes him.
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Credit: Getty
STRIKER: Kylian Mbappe, France
Mbappe recently expressed that the France squad had “failed” their departing manager Didier Deschamps, who is leaving post-tournament.
This sentiment came after the tournament favorites were eliminated by Spain in the semi-finals.
However, his individual accomplishments were commendable, scoring 10 goals to secure the golden boot and bringing his total World Cup goals to 22.
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