AFP compiles an all-time world cup best 11 ahead of the 2026 tournament

Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will feature 48 national teams, the French news agency AFP has selected an all-time best 11 in a 4-3-3 formation. The lineup honors legendary players who left a significant mark on the 22 previous editions of the tournament. The selected players are goalkeeper Gordon Banks (England), defenders Cafu (Brazil), Franz Beckenbauer (West Germany), Fabio Cannavaro (Italy), and Roberto Carlos (Brazil). The midfield consists of Andres Iniesta (Spain), Zinedine Zidane (France), and Diego Maradona (Argentina). The forward line features Pele (Brazil), Ronaldo (Brazil), and Lionel Messi (Argentina). Specific career highlights were noted, such as Gordon Banks's historic save against Pele in 1970 and the impact of Brazilian fullbacks Cafu and Roberto Carlos on defensive tactics. This retrospective analysis serves to celebrate the history of the sport as the upcoming competition approaches.