Top 11 Best Players Of The 2022 World Cup

The 2022 World Cup in Qatar was a spectacle, guys! Filled with drama, upsets, and unforgettable moments. While Argentina lifted the trophy, many individual players shone brightly throughout the tournament. Picking just 11 is tough, but here's my take on the top performers, forming a dream team of the best players from the 2022 World Cup.

1. Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martínez (Argentina)

Emiliano "Dibu" Martínez was more than just a goalkeeper for Argentina; he was a psychological weapon. His penalty shootout heroics against the Netherlands and France were legendary, displaying incredible composure and gamesmanship. But it wasn't just the shootouts; throughout the tournament, Martínez made crucial saves, commanded his area, and provided a calming presence for his defense. His save against Randal Kolo Muani in the final moments of extra time was simply unbelievable, denying France a certain goal and keeping Argentina's dream alive. Beyond his shot-stopping ability, Dibu's impact on the team's morale was undeniable. His passion and confidence spread throughout the squad, making him a true leader on and off the pitch. He wasn't afraid to get under the opposition's skin, and while some may have found his antics controversial, there's no denying his effectiveness. He won the Golden Glove award for the tournament's best goalkeeper, a fitting reward for his outstanding performances and crucial contributions to Argentina's triumph. He embodied the spirit of the Argentinian team – resilient, determined, and never willing to give up. He is not only the best goalkeeper in the tournament, but also a symbol of Argentina's victory.

2. Right-Back: Achraf Hakimi (Morocco)

Achraf Hakimi was a revelation for Morocco, a key figure in their historic run to the semi-finals. His energy and attacking prowess down the right flank were a constant threat to opposing defenses. He not only defended stoutly but also provided crucial assists and scored a decisive penalty in the shootout against Spain. His pace and dribbling skills allowed him to consistently beat his man and create opportunities for his teammates. Hakimi's performances were a testament to his versatility and athleticism, showcasing his ability to excel in both defensive and offensive roles. He was a crucial component of Morocco's tactical setup, providing width and dynamism to their attack while also contributing to their solid defensive structure. His contributions were vital to Morocco's success as they became the first African nation to reach the World Cup semi-finals. Hakimi's impact extended beyond his individual performances, as he also inspired his teammates and galvanized the Moroccan fans. He is a role model for aspiring footballers in Africa and a symbol of the continent's growing strength in the world of football. He demonstrated the power of belief, teamwork, and determination, and his performances will be remembered for years to come.

3. Center-Back: Joško Gvardiol (Croatia)

Joško Gvardiol, even with the mask, emerged as one of the best center-backs in the world during the tournament. His composure, tackling ability, and aerial presence were outstanding. He consistently shut down opposing attackers and made crucial interceptions. Despite being only 20 years old, Gvardiol played with the maturity and intelligence of a seasoned veteran. His ability to read the game and anticipate danger was remarkable. He also showed impressive distribution skills, often starting attacks from the back with accurate passes. Gvardiol's performances were particularly impressive considering the high pressure and intensity of World Cup matches. He remained calm and focused under pressure, making smart decisions and avoiding costly mistakes. His partnership with Dejan Lovren formed a formidable defensive wall that was difficult for opponents to break down. He is a rising star in the world of football and has a bright future ahead of him. His performances at the World Cup have solidified his reputation as one of the most promising young defenders in the game, and he is sure to attract the attention of top clubs around the world.

4. Center-Back: Romain Saïss (Morocco)

Romain Saïss was the rock at the heart of Morocco's defense, leading by example with his commanding presence and unwavering commitment. His aerial dominance, tackling prowess, and organizational skills were crucial to Morocco's defensive solidity. He was a true leader on the pitch, guiding his teammates and ensuring that they maintained their focus and discipline. Saïss's experience and composure were invaluable in high-pressure situations. He consistently made timely interceptions and clearances, preventing opponents from creating dangerous scoring opportunities. His partnership with Nayef Aguerd formed a formidable defensive pairing that was difficult for opposing attackers to overcome. Saïss's impact extended beyond his defensive contributions, as he also provided a calming influence on the team. His leadership and experience helped to keep the team focused and motivated throughout the tournament. He is a true warrior and a symbol of Morocco's resilience and determination. His performances at the World Cup were a testament to his skill, dedication, and leadership qualities.

5. Left-Back: Theo Hernandez (France)

Theo Hernandez provided dynamism and attacking threat down France's left flank. His pace, crossing ability, and willingness to get forward were a constant headache for opposing defenders. He also contributed defensively, making important tackles and interceptions. Hernandez's energy and enthusiasm were infectious, and he played with a passion that inspired his teammates. He was a key component of France's attacking strategy, providing width and creating opportunities for the forwards. His runs down the left flank stretched opposing defenses and created space for his teammates to exploit. Hernandez's performances were particularly impressive considering the high expectations placed on him as a member of the French national team. He rose to the occasion and delivered consistently throughout the tournament. He is a modern fullback who excels in both attack and defense. His contributions were vital to France's success in reaching the final.

6. Midfielder: Sofyan Amrabat (Morocco)

Sofyan Amrabat was the engine room of the Moroccan midfield, a tireless ball-winner and tenacious tackler. His energy, work rate, and defensive awareness were crucial to Morocco's success. He disrupted opposing attacks, shielded his defense, and provided a platform for his teammates to launch counter-attacks. Amrabat's performances were particularly impressive considering the quality of the opposition he faced. He consistently shut down some of the world's best midfielders, preventing them from dictating the game. His commitment and determination were evident in every match. He played with a passion and intensity that inspired his teammates. Amrabat's impact extended beyond his defensive contributions, as he also provided a calming influence on the team. His composure and experience helped to keep the team focused and disciplined. He is a true warrior and a symbol of Morocco's resilience and determination.

7. Midfielder: Antoine Griezmann (France)

Antoine Griezmann reinvented himself as a midfielder for France, showcasing his versatility and intelligence. His work rate, passing range, and tactical awareness were crucial to France's attacking and defensive balance. He linked the play between defense and attack, creating opportunities for his teammates and tracking back to help out defensively. Griezmann's performances were a testament to his adaptability and footballing intelligence. He thrived in his new role, demonstrating his ability to read the game and make smart decisions. His contributions were vital to France's success in reaching the final. He has proved he is one of the best midfielders.

8. Midfielder: Enzo Fernández (Argentina)

Enzo Fernández emerged as a key player for Argentina, winning the Young Player Award. His energy, passing range, and tackling ability added dynamism to the Argentinian midfield. He was not afraid to take on responsibility, making crucial passes and interceptions. Fernandez's performances were particularly impressive considering his age and relative inexperience. He quickly established himself as a vital member of the Argentinian team. His contributions were instrumental in Argentina's success in winning the World Cup. He is a future superstar of football.

9. Forward: Lionel Messi (Argentina)

No surprise here, Lionel Messi finally completed his trophy cabinet with the World Cup. His goals, assists, and overall influence were simply magical. He carried Argentina on his shoulders, scoring crucial goals in every stage of the tournament and orchestrating their attacks with his unparalleled vision and skill. This was Lionel Messi's tournament, and he cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time. He won the Golden Ball award for the tournament's best player, a fitting tribute to his outstanding performances. He inspired his teammates and captivated the world with his brilliance.

10. Forward: Kylian Mbappé (France)

Kylian Mbappé was a phenomenon, scoring a hat-trick in the final and winning the Golden Boot. His pace, dribbling skills, and finishing ability were simply unstoppable. He terrorized opposing defenses and scored some breathtaking goals. Mbappé's performances confirmed his status as one of the best players in the world. His hat-trick in the final was a historic achievement, and he came incredibly close to winning the World Cup for France.

11. Forward: Julian Alvarez (Argentina)

Julian Alvarez was a revelation for Argentina, providing energy, pace, and clinical finishing. His work rate, movement, and goal-scoring ability added a new dimension to the Argentinian attack. He formed a great partnership with Messi and provided a constant threat to opposing defenses. Alvarez's performances were particularly impressive considering his age and relative inexperience. He quickly established himself as a vital member of the Argentinian team. His contributions were instrumental in Argentina's success in winning the World Cup.

This is just my opinion, guys, and there were many other players who could have easily made this list. But these 11 stood out to me as the best performers of the 2022 World Cup. What do you think? Who would make your dream team? Let me know in the comments below!