Ghana defender Marvin Senaya has been named in Opta Analyst’s Best XI of the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage after a series of outstanding performances for the Black Stars.
The AJ Auxerre right-back featured in all three of Ghana’s Group L matches against Panama, England and Croatia, playing a key role in one of the tournament’s most impressive defensive units.
Senaya delivered his standout display in Ghana’s goalless draw against England, where he successfully neutralised dangerous winger Anthony Gordon, who recently completed a reported €80 million move to Barcelona. The Ghanaian full-back produced a disciplined and composed performance, winning several key battles against one of Europe’s most highly-rated attackers.
His consistency throughout the group stage was backed by impressive statistics. Senaya recorded a tournament-leading 18 tackle attempts and won 24 of his 38 duels, highlighting his effectiveness in one-on-one defensive situations.
The 24-year-old also ranked among the competition’s best defenders in Opta’s advanced metrics, registering a 72% success rate in “true tackles”—a measure that rewards defenders for successfully making contact with the ball, even if possession is not immediately regained.
His performances earned him a place in Opta’s Group Stage Best XI alongside Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, Spain defender Pau Cubarsí, Cape Verde’s Diney and Japan’s Nakamura in defence.
The midfield comprises USA international Weston McKennie and Ecuador playmaker Pedro Vite, while the attack features an all-star frontline of Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland and Vinícius Júnior, with Lionel Messi completing the team in a creative role.
Senaya will now hope to continue his outstanding World Cup form when Ghana face Colombia in the Round of 32 as the Black Stars bid to book their place in the last 16.
