World Cup 2022 - team of the tournament

Emi Martinez (Argentina)

Winner of the Golden Glove, having accepted his trophy with a celebration that has already launched a thousand memes, the Aston Villa goalkeeper was one of the standout players in Qatar.

With three clean sheets in the World Cup, it was Martinez's penalty heroics as well as his stunning save from Randal Kolo Muani with seconds remaining in extra-time in the final to force penalties that really stood out.

His record in shootouts was what really helped Argentina get over the line, first against the Netherlands and then against France in the final.

Marcos Acuna (Argentina)

One of the few beneficiaries of Argentina’s shock opening day defeat to Saudi Arabia, Marcos Acuna replaced Nicolas Tagliafico as his side’s first-choice left-back after that defeat and both he and Argentina never looked back.

An all-action fullback who was just as happy and effective joining in the attack as he was with his defensive duties, Acuna missed out on a starting place in the final after failing a late fitness test but came off the bench to again impress.

Romain Saiss (Morocco)

The key figure in Morocco’s hugely impressive back four, Saiss helped to marshal the defence that was the basis for Morocco’s stunning run to the semi-finals.

The Wolves defender formed a defensive partnership with Nayef Aguerd that at times look unbreachable and helped to stun big-hitters like Portugal, Spain and Belgium.

Stretchered off against Portugal in his side’s quarter-final victory, Saiss was deemed fit enough to start the semi-final against France but never looked to be 100% and his absence was keenly felt after he was substituted in the 21st minute.

Josko Gvardiol (Croatia)

Perhaps the biggest breakout player in Qatar, RB Leipzig are likely to have