While purists may be more fixated on the attacking brilliance of elite teams at the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, the importance of defensive stability cannot be overstated.
Throughout the history of the World Cup, several nations have won the coveted trophy through defensive masterclasses. In fact, tactical discipline and a strong backline are often considered the foundation of tournament-winning teams, frequently outpacing free-flowing offensive sides in knockout football.
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In recent seasons, several defenders have established themselves among the best in the sport. And with the 23rd edition of football’s biggest tournament set to kick off, they will be keen to further prove their mettle and cement their legacies. This list takes a look at five defenders who could rule the roost in north America this summer.
#5. Virgil van Dijk
Virgil van Dijk has established himself as the benchmark for what a modern center-back should be. The Dutchman is renowned for his finesse, imposing presence, and leadership at the heart of the defense.
While he has lost a some of the qualities that earned him the status of an impregnable force that has shouldered Liverpool’s backline since 2018, Van Dijk’s experience could still prove invaluable for the Netherlands in north America.
The 34-year-old is set to captain the Dutch national team at a second consecutive World Cup. He captained the team in the 2022 edition in Qatar, leading them to the quarter-finals, where they were eliminated by Argentina in a penalty shootout. To date, Van Dijk has amassed 92 caps for the Netherlands with 12 goals to his name.
#4. Nuno Mendes
A two-time UEFA Champions League winner with Paris Saint-Germain, Nuno Mendes is widely regarded as one of the world’s most exciting left-backs. The 23-year-old has not only successfully contained some of football’s most lethal wingers, but he has also won the hearts of fans with his attacking forays in the opposition’s box.
Mendes was called up by Portugal for the 2022 edition in Qatar, but an injury cut short his tournament. He would go on to play a crucial role for Portugal in their Nations League triumph in 2025, scoring a goal against Spain in the final. Coming off the back of a trophy-laden 2025-26 campaign with PSG, Mendes is expected to be the same formidable defender he was with PSG for Portugal in the 2026 World Cup.
#3. William Saliba
Over the last four seasons, William Saliba has forged a formidable partnership at the heart of Arsenal’s defense with Gabriel Magalhaes. Nicknamed ‘Rolls Royce,’ Saliba possesses most qualities associated with elite modern defenders, ranging from strength, intelligence, ability on the ball, and aerial prowess.
The defender played a bit-part role in France’s last time out in the World Cup, but after helping Arsenal win their first Premier League title in 22 years, he is expected to earn the trust of Didier Deschamps in Les Bleus’ backline.
#2. Achraf Hakimi
Like Mendes, Achraf Hakimi has effectively redefined the role of a fullback, with the Morocco international tearing it up both with country and club. Hakimi has already excelled in the World Cup, having helped Morocco reach the semi-finals of the 2022 edition – the furthest an African side has ever reached.
The defender is still well in his prime and is expected to help Morocco replicate their heroics of the previous World Cup campaign in north America. Another deep run World Cup run with Morocco could put Hakimi in strong contention for a second consecutive African Player of the Year award.
#1. Gabriel Magalhaes
Despite the disappointment of missing the decisive spot kick in Arsenal’s Champions League final defeat to PSG, Gabriel Magalhaes was arguably one of the best defenders in the world alongside teammate Saliba in the 2025/26 campaign.
Gabriel’s solidity in defense is not the only quality that makes him stand out, but his aerial threat from set pieces has made him a formidable defender. The 28-year-old, alongside Marquinhos, is expected to spearhead Brazil’s defense in the 2026 World Cup and will look to help his country win its first World Cup crown in 24 years.
Edited by Ezekiel Olamide