Martínez steps up in the key moments. He was crucial to both of Argentina’s shootout wins, and kept out a gilt-edged last-gasp chance for France in the final.

DIBU MARTÍNEZ

(Goalkeeper - Argentina)

After the injury to his brother, Lucas, Theo played a major role for France. He performed excellently, scoring once and supplying two assists.

THEO HERNÁNDEZ

(Defender - France)

The 34-year-old was Argentina’s defensive general. The backline was supposed to be the Albiceleste’s weakness, but it was outstanding.

NICOLÁS OTAMENDI

(Defender - Argentina)

A revelation. The young centre-back was Croatia’s key man, and his goal in the third-place playoff helped earn the Vatreni the bronze medal.

JOSKO GVARDIOL

(Defender - Croatia)

Probably the world’s most exciting prospect at right-back. He was exceptional going forward, solid in defence, and just has so much ability.

ACHRAF HAKIMI

(Defender - Morocco)

Amrabat didn’t score or set up any goals, but he fully merits his spot in this XI. His defensive work was key to Morocco’s surprise semi-final run.

SOFYAN AMRABAT

(Midfielder - Morocco)

The chief revelation of the World Cup. He scored one and supplied an assist, and a clutch of top clubs are now chasing the Benfica man.

ENZO FERNÁNDEZ

(Midfielder - Argentina)

Griezmann didn’t have a great final, but he was one of France’s stand-out players in Qatar. The string puller-in-chief, he provided three assists.

ANTOINE GRIEZMANN

(Midfielder - France)

Mbappé hit a hat-trick in the final  and claimed the Golden Boot with eight goals - yet it still wasn’t enough to win the tournament!

KYLIAN MBAPPÉ

(Forward - France)

The young forward began the World Cup as a substitute, but ended it a nailed-on starter. His four goals in Qatar is a truly top-class return.

JULIÁN ÁLVAREZ

(Forward - Argentina)

Messi finally got his hands on the World Cup, and was named the tournament’s best player. He racked up seven goals and three assists.

LIONEL MESSI

(Forward - Argentina)