Paraguayan Goalkeeper Orlando Gill Earns Global AIPS Recognition After World Cup 2026

Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Gill has earned global recognition, being named among the top 20 players in the 2026 FIFA World Cup by the International Sports Press Association (AIPS). A survey involving 472 journalists from 121 countries placed Gill at 18th with 12 points, a testament to his standout performance during Paraguay's World Cup campaign.

Gill was the sole Paraguayan included in the voting, highlighting his significant contribution as a key player for the national team throughout the tournament. His inclusion on this select list, which featured global football stars, underscores his impact on the international stage.

The AIPS poll saw Lionel Messi crowned the best footballer of the tournament with 1,179 points, followed by Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham. Other prominent figures on the list included Erling Haaland, Lamine Yamal, Rodri, Harry Kane, Achraf Hakimi, Ousmane Dembélé, and Mohamed Salah, with Gill joining them in this esteemed group. The voting process involved journalists awarding points to their top three players, with the winner receiving five points, the second-place player three, and the third-place player one.

This global acknowledgment for Gill is particularly significant given the extensive international participation, with journalists from 121 countries contributing to the poll. It reflects the profound impression the Paraguayan goalkeeper made with his performances during the 2026 World Cup, solidifying his status as a respected figure in international football.