Opta announces statistical best eleven for the World Cup group stage

Data provider Opta has released a statistical best eleven for the group stage of the current World Cup. The selection features high-performing players based on objective performance metrics. The lineup includes Lionel Messi of Argentina, Kylian Mbappé of France, Vinícius Júnior of Brazil, and Erling Haaland of Norway. Notable inclusions from various national teams were identified, representing Cape Verde, Ghana, Japan, the United States, and Ecuador. The specific players listed are Vozinha, Senaya, Cubarsí, Diney, Nakamura, McKennie, and Vite. There is a discrepancy in the reporting regarding the eleventh player, as one source duplicates Haaland in the forward position while another lists him correctly as the final member of the XI. The list aims to highlight statistically significant individual performances observed throughout the first round of the tournament.