There is only one champion, yet the top 11 making up the ideal squad come from styles and setups that excelled above the rest.
The World Cup in Qatar 2022 delivered surprises, reinforced enduring truths, and allowed many of the world’s best players to shine for their national teams or, in some cases, to shine under their own spotlight. It also highlighted teams that exited earlier than expected and fell short of their objectives.
Alongside stars like Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé, the attacking formations chosen for the Cup’s ideal XI feature a mix of established names rushing toward even more competitive moves or veterans signing off on the biggest international stage of all.
bond; Achraf, Otamendi, Gvardiol, Theo; Tchouaméni, Amrabat, Modrić, Gakpo; Messi and Mbappé, the XI of the World Cup.
GOALKEEPER
The primary factor behind Morocco reaching the semi-finals lies with the collective effort, yet Bono, the Sevilla custodian, reached the penultimate round after a pivotal save. He faced a formidable French attack that ultimately clinched the final, but Bono stood out throughout the tournament as a beacon of reliability.
In the bronze medal match, a crucial stop against Modrić helped restore Morocco’s momentum after a rocky start.
DEFENSES
The back line is anchored by Achraf Hakimi and Theo Hernández on the flanks. The PSG forward showcased relentless energy from wide areas, and his partnerships with Hakim Ziyech consistently provided threat. It’s worth noting that the central defense had to cope with injuries to key teammates and adapt with midfielders stepping into new roles. Theo, wrestling with personal adversity as his brother Lucas faced a setback, nonetheless emerged as a regular starter for Didier Deschamps, offering defensive solidity and occasional goals, including a timely strike in the quarter-finals.
The central duo of Josko Gvardiol and Nicolás Otamendi stood out. Otamendi, a seasoned Argentine, displayed veteran composure and leadership, guiding a defense that supported a squad rooted in a strong tactical plan. Gvardiol, the Croatian sensation, demonstrated versatility and speed, excelling in duels and distributing play with maturity beyond his years. His performance crowned a month of brilliance, hinting at a future role as Croatia’s central pillar for years to come.
MIDFIELDERS
Sofyan Amrabat emerged as the World Cup’s most influential midfielder. His passing, vision, and relentless work rate became the heartbeat of Morocco, driving transitions and instilling confidence across the pitch. He logged kilometers with ease and anchored a team that trusted him to initiate moves and shield the back line.
Cody Gakpo captured the imagination of fans with his perseverance, goal-scoring instinct, and ability to operate across midfield and attack. The Dutchman carried responsibility as a primary creator and finisher, a key figure within a squad built around flexible attacking options and tactical discipline under a coach who valued adaptability.
Modrić delivered a masterclass, earning a near-perfect personal assessment and a medal that felt earned rather than given. His influence helped Croatia push deep into the tournament, with leadership and technical mastery guiding the team through demanding duels. At 37, his performance stood as a testament to longevity and craft, elevating the Croatian effort to new heights.
Aurelien Tchouaméni embodied the France midfield’s rhythm. His all-around game—defensive work, distribution, and a breathtaking volley against England—showed the blend of tenacity and technical quality Deschamps demands. His steady growth indicated a future cornerstone, capable of driving the national team through sustained cycles of competition.
FRONT SIDES
Lionel Messi showcased a peak performance, exhibiting scoring prowess, playmaking, and leadership from central zones, while Kylian Mbappé provided electric bursts from his preferred positions. The two became a formidable duo, each capable of altering a game with clinical finishing and intelligent positioning. Mbappé, moving with speed and precision, complemented Messi’s broader influence on the build-up and final third work when on the field together.
WHAT DOES THE XI LOOK LIKE?
A dynamic 4-4-2 system that can flex into a 4-3-3, with Gakpo operating behind Messi and Mbappé on the flanks, providing balance and attacking options across the field.
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Source: Goal