Spain Dominates World Cup Awards: Golden Ball to Rodri, Golden Glove to Simón, Young Player to Cubarsí
Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Spain dominated the 2026 World Cup individual awards, winning Best Player, Best Young Player, and Best Goalkeeper.
- Rodri was named the tournament's best player, Pau Cubarsí received the best young player award, and Unai Simón was the best goalkeeper.
- Kylian Mbappé of France was the only non-Spanish winner, securing the Golden Boot for top scorer with ten goals.
Spain's national football team not only clinched the 2026 World Cup title but also swept the tournament's individual awards. The team's dominance extended to the accolades for the best young player, best player, and best goalkeeper, all of which were awarded to Spanish footballers.
Unai Simón, Spain's goalkeeper, was a predictable choice for the best goalkeeper award. He conceded only one goal throughout the entire tournament, a remarkable defensive performance that underpinned Spain's success. His consistency and reliability in goal were crucial to their championship run.
While Lamine Yamal was considered a strong contender for the best young player award before the tournament, the honor ultimately went to his teammate Pau Cubarsí. Cubarsí, a fellow Spanish player, impressed with his performances, earning recognition as the tournament's top young talent.
The Golden Ball for the best player in the World Cup was awarded to veteran midfielder Rodri. Rodri, who also captained the Spanish team, had previously won the best player award in 2024. His leadership and skill on the field were instrumental in Spain's victory.
The only individual award not claimed by a Spanish player was the Golden Boot for the top scorer. This prestigious award went to France's Kylian Mbappé, who netted an impressive ten goals during the tournament.
Originally published by Večernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.