Godínez, Jakupovic, Samuels lead 2026 U-17 Qualifiers Best XI | OneFootball

MIAMI – The 2026 Concacaf U-17 Qualifiers came to an end with eight teams booking their spots in the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026. 

There were many big performances throughout the Qualifying cycle, yet these eleven stood out the most in their respective positions.

Here is a look at the tournament’s Best XI.

Goalkeeper

Noslen Godínez, Cuba - The Group F winners were not easy to score on thanks to 11 saves over three games from Godínez. The Cuban shot stopper only conceded one goal as Cuba secured its U-17 World Cup qualification.

Defenders

Jacob Gallop, Barbados - The Barbados right back was a key contributor on both ends, logging 315 minutes and accumulating eight tackles. Gallop also scored two goals and had an assist.

Alejandro López, Dominican Republic - López was the centerpiece to a defensive unit that only conceded one goal. He also played a role offensively with a goal and assist.

Sonson Jean-Baptiste, Haiti - Haiti qualified for the FIFA U-17 World Cup for the fourth time in part to some great performances from Jean-Baptiste. The left back tallied seven interceptions to go along with a goal and pair of assists.

Midfielders

Luis Trujillo, Mexico - Trujillo was vital and efficient for Mexico with four goals from six shots on target.

Thiago Chalmers, Panama - Chalmers was the motor for Panama, scoring five goals in three games. He found the back of the net in every Group Stage match, including a hat trick in the opening win over Dominica.

Eduardo Romero, Honduras - The midfielder helped Honduras punch its ticket to the U-17 World Cup with a goal and three assists in two matches.

Jahmarie Nolan, Jamaica - Nolan led the way for Jamaica with four goals and two assists. He scored in each Group Stage game, including a brace in a win over Cayman Islands.

Forwards

Akenai Samuels, Costa Rica - Samuels was crucial in the attack with six goals and six assists in 225 minutes played to help Costa Rica score a tournament-best 35 goals and win Group D on goal difference.

Malik Jakupovic, United States - The U.S. striker was the leading scorer of the Group Stage, netting eight goals from 12 shots on target in three matches. He scored five of those in a shutout of Saint Kitts and Nevis. 

Paul González, Costa Rica - González was an integral part of the relentless Costa Rican offense, recording six goals and an assist.