2026 World Cup: Ghana’s Marvin Senaya Named in opta’s best XI
Ghana defender Marvin Senaya has been named in Opta’s Team of the Tournament for the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage after a series of impressive performances for the Black Stars.
The AJ Auxerre right-back featured in all three of Ghana’s group matches against Panama, England and Croatia, establishing himself as one of the tournament’s standout defenders with composed and disciplined displays.
Senaya’s finest performance came in Ghana’s clash with England, where he successfully contained winger Anthony Gordon, who recently completed an €80 million move to Barcelona. Despite facing one of Europe’s most dangerous attacking threats, the 24-year-old delivered a commanding defensive display that earned widespread praise.
His influence was reflected in the statistics. Senaya attempted a tournament-high 18 tackles during the group stage and won 24 of his 38 duels, highlighting his effectiveness in one-on-one situations.
Advanced defensive data further underlined his impact, with the Ghana international recording a 72% success rate in “true tackles”, a metric that rewards defenders for making decisive contact with the ball even when possession is not immediately regained.
His performances secured him a place in Opta’s Best XI alongside Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, Spain defender Pau Cubarsí, Cape Verde’s Diney and Japan’s Nakamura in a back line recognised for its consistency throughout the group stage.
The midfield features United States international Weston McKennie and Ecuador’s Pedro Vite, while the attack boasts France captain Kylian Mbappé, Norway striker Erling Haaland, Brazil’s Vinícius Júnior and Argentina legend Lionel Messi.
Senaya will be hoping to maintain his impressive form when Ghana face Colombia in the Round of 32 as the Black Stars continue their quest for World Cup glory.
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