The 2026 FIFA World Cup has already served up its share of underdog stories, and while global icons like Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland dominate the headlines, a host of lesser-known players have written their names into tournament folklore. The Guardian has picked a team of the tournament so far comprising entirely of unsung heroes who've raised eyebrows and defied expectations in the opening group matches across Canada, Mexico and the United States.
From a 40-year-old goalkeeper who kept Spain at bay to a record-equalling shot-stopper from a tiny island nation, here is The Guardian's alternative Team of the Tournament.
The Goalkeepers Stealing the Spotlight
Two remarkable performances between the sticks headline this XI. Josimar, Cape Verde's 40-year-old keeper, produced a stunning seven saves to earn his side a historic 0-0 draw against European champions Spain. The Gil Vicente veteran, whose mother's visa was personally waved through by US politicians after his heroics, has become a cult figure overnight.
"His performance was a personal moment of glory that transcended football," wrote The Guardian's match reporter.
Playing in only his second World Cup match, the goalkeeper who plies his trade for Portuguese minnows became the internet's darling after a string of acrobatic saves kept Spain's golden generation at bay. "I've waited my whole life for this moment," Josimar told reporters after the final whistle.
Equally inspiring was Eloy Room of Curaçao. The 37-year-old matched Tim Howard's iconic record of 15 saves in a 90-minute World Cup match to earn the tiny Caribbean nation its first ever World Cup point in a 0-0 draw with Ecuador. Room, who has spent much of his career as a backup in the Dutch Eredivisie, delivered an unforgettable display that kept his side's qualification hopes alive.
"Room's performance was one of those rare moments when football produces a hero from nowhere," noted a Guardian writer.
The Curaçao captain dedicated his performance to the watching Dutch King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima, who had flown in to support the island nation of just 158,000 people.
Defensive Resolve
The back line is anchored by Costa Rica's veteran Francisco Calvo, whose leadership and composure frustrated a much-fancied opponent in a gritty draw. The 34-year-old, who plays his club football in Turkey, marshalled a back five that refused to buckle under relentless pressure. Alongside him, Panama's Harold Cummings threw himself into last-ditch challenges, making a goal-line clearance that preserved a precious point for the Central Americans. Full-backs from Canada and Saudi Arabia also earned praise for their tireless work rate in stifling more illustrious attacks, proving that organisation and discipline can neutralise even the most feared forward lines.
Midfield Engine Room
In midfield, Iran's Saeid Ezatolahi broke up play relentlessly, covering every blade of grass to shield his defence and launch counter-attacks. The former Atlético Madrid youth product was a one-man barrier against a group favourite. Alongside him, Japan's Kota Watanabe pulled the strings with his intelligent passing, completing 92% of his attempts against a top-tier opponent to help his side dominate possession. The duo's ability to punch above their weight gave their respective nations a fighting chance — and caught the eye of scouts from bigger leagues.
Attacking Threat
Up front, Ghana's Kamaldeen Sulemana tormented defences with his electrifying pace, scoring a sensational solo effort that sent shockwaves through the tournament. Canada's Theo Corbeanu also announced his arrival on the global stage with a poacher's finish that secured a vital win for the co-hosts. Their fearless running and clinical finishing have provided the tournament's biggest surprises, reminding everyone that the 2026 FIFA World Cup belongs to more than just the established superstars.
Key Takeaways
- Goalkeepers from minnows can define World Cup narratives as much as star forwards.
- Cape Verde and Curaçao have produced two of the most memorable individual displays so far.
- The spirit and organisation of less-fancied teams have caused major upsets during the group stage.
- Forgotten journeymen (Josimar, aged 40; Room, 37) can find redemption on football's biggest stage.
- This alternative XI highlights the depth of talent across the global game, far beyond the household names.
Quick Facts
Most saves in a 90-minute match (2026): Eloy Room, 15 (Curaçao vs Ecuador)
Oldest player to keep a clean sheet: Josimar, 40 years (Cape Verde vs Spain)
Nation with smallest population to earn a World Cup point: Curaçao (158,000)
Shots faced by Josimar vs Spain: 9 (7 on target, all saved)