Women’s World Cup 2023: Team of the Tournament
The 2023 Women’s World Cup delivered unforgettable moments, from surprising early exits by traditional powerhouses to breakout performances from emerging nations. Host country Australia made an impressive run, while European sides like Sweden, the Netherlands, and Spain continued to raise the standard. As the tournament concludes, here’s a comprehensive look at the standout players who formed the Team of the Tournament.
Goalkeeper: Mackenzie Arnold
Mackenzie Arnold proved indispensable for Australia, anchoring a defense that withstood immense pressure throughout the tournament. Her command of the penalty area was exceptional, confidently handling set-pieces and crosses that came her way. While Sweden’s Zećira Mušović dazzled with her shot-stopping ability—averaging 3.38 saves per 90 minutes—Arnold’s overall influence was vital for the Matildas, especially during her heroic penalty shootout performance against France. Conceding just 0.56 goals per 90 minutes, Arnold showcased both intelligence and composure, topping the knockout rounds with 2.44 punches and claims per 90.
Notable substitutes: Zećira Mušović, Mary Earps
Right Back: Ona Batlle
Ona Batlle was instrumental to Spain’s attacking and defensive prowess, demonstrating versatility by performing seamlessly on both flanks. Her offensive contributions included an average of 1.5 key passes and 1.8 crosses per 90 minutes, with an impressive 44% cross completion rate leading up to the final. Batlle’s tactical intelligence, making overlapping and underlapping runs, amplified Spain’s threat in the wide areas and was integral to their dynamic gameplay.
Centre Back: Amanda Ilestedt
Amanda Ilestedt emerged as a surprise scoring sensation from the backline, notching four goals thanks largely to her ability to capitalize on set-pieces, especially from Jonna Andersson’s corner kicks. Standing at 5’10″, Ilestedt was a near-unstoppable aerial threat and finished the tournament having won 72.4% of her defensive duels. Remarkably, no opponent managed to dribble past her, highlighting both her defensive discipline and anticipation.
Notable substitute: Stefanie van der Gragt
Centre Back: Alex Greenwood
Alex Greenwood anchored the England defense, logging every minute for the Lionesses. Her technical skill stood out, averaging 1.8 key passes per 90 from deep positions and consistently organizing play from the back. Greenwood was also a primary set-piece taker, which further emphasized her importance. Defensively, she won 71.1% of her duels, reinforcing her value as one of England’s most consistent performers.
Left Back: Olga Carmona
Olga Carmona’s late-tournament heroics, including decisive goals in both the semi-final and final, capped off a superb campaign for Spain’s left-back. Offensively, Carmona provided relentless support down the flank, blending overlapping runs with quality crosses. Defensively, she won over 60% of her duels and played a key role in securing three clean sheets for her side. Her impact in clutch moments ensured her spot among the best of the tournament.
Notable substitutes: Jun Endo, Esmee Brugts
Defensive Midfield: Teresa Abelleira
Occupying the deep-lying midfield role, Teresa Abelleira excelled as Spain’s metronome. She set the tempo alongside Aitana Bonmatí and Ona Batlle, stepping up in the absence of Patri Guijarro. Abelleira averaged 3.52 accurate crosses per 90 minutes—the second-best mark in the squad—and completed 69% of her long passes. Her defensive work-rate was equally impressive, frequently covering wide areas to support advanced full-backs and leading Spain’s rest defense.
Notable substitute: Elin Rubensson
Central Midfield: Aitana Bonmatí
Widely discussed as a candidate for the tournament’s top player, Aitana Bonmatí orchestrated Spain’s attacks with poise reminiscent of icons like Iniesta and Xavi. Her standout performance featured two goals and two assists in a single game against Switzerland, highlighting her ability to time late runs into the box and dictate possession. Bonmatí’s influence spanned both creative build-up play and direct goal contributions, making her indispensable to Spain’s title run.
Notable substitute: Katrina Gorry
Central Midfield: Jill Roord
Jill Roord thrived in a box-to-box role for the Netherlands, scoring four goals from midfield. She seamlessly linked up with teammates in attack while balancing her responsibilities in defense, where she averaged 4.5 tackles per 90 minutes—second among quarterfinalists. Her performances helped the Netherlands maintain solid defensive cohesion and provided crucial goals when required.
Notable substitute: Lindsey Horan
Right Wing: Hinata Miyazawa
The breakout star from Japan, Hinata Miyazawa, took the tournament by storm by securing the Golden Boot as the top scorer. Her blistering pace on transitions, sharp finishing (converting 38% of her shots), and knack for being in the right place at the right time made her a constant threat. Scoring at a remarkable rate of 1.34 goals per 90 minutes, Miyazawa quickly became one of the most talked-about attacking talents in world football.
Notable substitutes: Alba Redondo, Hayley Raso
Centre Forward: Alexandra Popp
Despite Germany’s shock group-stage exit, Alexandra Popp was nearly unstoppable in front of goal. She racked up four goals in just three matches, averaging 1.37 goals per 90 minutes. Her aerial dominance was unmatched, winning nearly 80% of her headers in attack. While her team didn’t advance, Popp’s personal performances were exemplary, demonstrating both leadership and a predatory instinct in the box.
Notable substitute: Mary Fowler
Left Wing: Jenni Hermoso
Though naturally a midfielder, Jenni Hermoso was deployed wide on the left for this tournament, where she continued to demonstrate her class for Spain. Registering three goals and two assists, Hermoso was critical in linking midfield and attack, notably building strong partnerships with Esther Gonzalez and other Spanish forwards. Her tactical intelligence and experience allowed her to execute Spain’s attacking principles to perfection.
Notable substitute: Lauren James
Special Mention: Esmee Brugts
Before Olga Carmona’s late heroics, Dutch winger Esmee Brugts delivered memorable moments down the left flank for the Netherlands. Initially tested defensively, Brugts compensated with crucial goals, electrifying runs, and excellent crosses. She also contributed significantly on defense, recording 3.3 tackles and 2.5 interceptions per 90 minutes. At just 20 years old, her tournament performance signals a bright future ahead.
Conclusion
This year’s Women’s World Cup saw new stars emerge and familiar faces cement their legacy. The selected Team of the Tournament celebrates the athletes whose performances defined the event, representing a blend of defensive solidity, creative ingenuity, and attacking brilliance. As the sport continues to grow, these players have set a new benchmark for excellence on the global stage.
