2026 World Cup: Marvin Senaya earns Group Stage Best XI spot after standout performance
Ghana defender Marvin Senaya has been named in Opta’s Group Stage Best XI at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup following a string of commanding performances at right-back.
The AJ Auxerre defender played every minute of Ghana’s group matches against Panama, England and Croatia, emerging as one of the most consistent performers in the Black Stars’ campaign.
His defining moment came against England, where he delivered a disciplined and authoritative defensive display against winger Anthony Gordon, limiting the Barcelona-bound forward’s influence throughout the contest.
Beyond that standout performance, Senaya maintained a high level across all three matches. He recorded the highest number of tackle attempts in the group stage with 18, and won 24 of his 38 duels, underlining his strength in one-on-one situations.
Advanced defensive metrics also highlighted his efficiency. His 72.0% success rate in “true tackles” placed him joint 16th among players who registered at least 10 such actions, reflecting his ability to consistently disrupt opponents even in tight situations.
Senaya is joined in the XI by Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, who has been one of the tournament’s surprise performers.
The defensive unit also includes Spain’s Pau Cubarsí, Cape Verde’s Diney and Japan’s Nakamura, forming a backline recognised for its consistency and composure throughout the group stage.
In midfield, USA’s Weston McKennie partners Ecuador’s Pedro Vite, combining physicality with technical quality and creative control.
The attack is headlined by France’s Kylian Mbappé and Norway’s Erling Haaland, selected as a fearsome central pairing.
Brazil’s Vinícius Júnior also features after another influential tournament showing, while Argentina’s Lionel Messi completes the forward line with his trademark creativity and experience from the right side.
Opta's Team of the Group Stage below:
Meanwhile, Senaya is expected to feature when the Black Stars take on Colombia in the Round of 32 in the ongoing 2026 World Cup.