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Based on the performance indicator
Although the FIFA-sanctioned “Silver Ball” was settled with the “Silver Ball” approved by the International Football Federation (FIFA), but after Spain’s victory over Argentina in the final of the 2026 World Cup, Lionel Messi found individual recognition from the other side.
The International Federation of Football History and Statistics chose:IFFHS:Messi is the best player of the tournament, given his outstanding performance and impact on Argentina’s run to the final.
The selection of the Argentina national team captain is based on his performance index, which is based on match ratings, goals, assists and the player’s overall impact in tournament matches, especially in the knockout stages.
39-year-old Messi played eight matches in the World Cup, during which he scored 8 goals and made 4 assists, reaching 12 goals.
The crowning comes days after the International Football Federation (FIFA) awarded the official Golden Ball for the World Cup’s best player to Spain captain Rodri, while Messi settled for the Silver Ball and the Bronze Ball went to France star Kylian Mbappe.
The difference in winners reflects the difference in evaluation criteria between the two organizations. The FIFA awards are based on official voting, while the IFFHS rankings are based on a specific statistical index that measures individual performance and technical impact during the tournament.
