Best team, moments, matches and players of World Cup group stage

As the group stages of the World Cup draw to a close, BBC Sport reporters have weighed in with their definitive picks for the tournament's standout elements. Their selections encompass the best team assembled from the initial matches, the most memorable moments, the top-tier games, and the individual players who have shone brightest.

These choices provide a snapshot of the competition's highlights, reflecting the reporters' assessments of performance and impact during the group phase. The selections are based on the on-field action and the narratives that have unfolded as teams battled for progression.

The collective opinion of the BBC Sport team offers a compelling overview of the tournament's early successes and defining characteristics. Their insights aim to capture the essence of the group stage, celebrating the skill, drama, and excitement that have defined the competition thus far.