Gab Marcotti's Best XI of World Cup group stage: M...

According to ESPN's Gab Marcotti, the World Cup group stage has delivered superstars at their peak and genuine underdogs turning heads alike. Selecting the best eleven meant weighing the expected brilliance of Messi, Mbappé, and Vinicius Junior against plucky newcomers who've stolen the spotlight. Marcotti's XI captures that mix—a snapshot of who's shining brightest as the tournament deepens.

Listen to this story

Hear this and more stories in a personalized audio briefing.

Open The Chonkerton