The Only African in the Best XI: An Arab player among the best performers in the group stage

03.07.26 AP World Cup

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Mostafa Shobeir made history after being named the best goalkeeper of the World Cup 2026 group stage following stellar displays across North America.

Global recognition for the Pharaohs' number one

According to football statistics and market value platform Transfermarkt, Mostafa Shobeir has been officially selected as the premier goalkeeper of the tournament's opening phase.

The prominent platform revealed its ultimate Group Stage Best XI on its official Instagram account celebrating the standout performers who illuminated the tournament. Remarkably, Shobeir stands proud as the solitary Arab and African player to earn a spot in this elite lineup highlighting his sudden rise on the international stage.

Stepping out of a legendary shadow

Shobeir’s inclusion is fully merited after a series of breathtaking performances that propelled his nation into the Round of 32.

The shot stopper proved to be the ultimate shield for his backline pulling off point blank saves under immense pressure. His defining moment of the tournament so far came during a high stakes group clash against Iran where he brilliantly denied a crucial penalty to preserve his team's momentum and secure qualification.

In the company of greatness

The prestigious Team of the Group Stage positions the Egyptian goalkeeper alongside some of the absolute biggest icons in modern football. Shobeir anchors a star-studded lineup that features:

• Kylian Mbappé (France)
• Erling Haaland (Norway)
• Lionel Messi (Argentina)
• Vinicius Junior (Brazil)
• Bruno Guimarães (Brazil)
• Michael Olise (France)
• Dayot Upamecano (France)

Replicating African goalkeeping royalty

Shobeir’s tournament heroics evoke strong memories of Morocco's Yassine Bounou during the World Cup 2022 in Qatar. Much like Bounou whose legendary penalty saving masterclass against Spain galvanized the Atlas Lions into a historic semifinal run, Shobeir is quickly becoming the emotional heartbeat of this Egyptian squad.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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