World Cup kicks off tomorrow, and Sifted has assembled a fantasy XI of European startup founders to mirror the tournament’s competitive spirit. The lineup blends founders from tech, fintech, and cybersecurity, positioning them as if they were professional footballers on a global stage. This playful exercise spotlights the crossover between venture capital and athletic ambition.

At the helm, Pieter van der Does, CEO of Adyen, serves as manager, while Niklas Zennstrom, CEO of Atomico, acts as technical director. Their experience in scaling payments and nurturing early‑stage firms lends tactical depth. The roster also features Walter Goodwin of Fractile and Markus Villig of Bolt, both known for rapid growth metrics today.

Backline defenders include Hélène Huby of The Exploration Company and Judith Dada of Visionaries Club, while Markus Villig provides mobility on the flank. Midfield sees co‑CEO Alan Chang of Fuse Energy steering play, and Joel Hellermark of Sana orchestrating attacks. The XI’s composition underscores how venture talent mirrors the demands of a World Cup squad.

By positioning founders in a football context, Sifted highlights the entrepreneurial agility that parallels on‑field tactics. Investors eye this analogy to gauge which innovators possess the resilience and adaptability required for scaling. The exercise reminds stakeholders that startup success, like winning the World Cup, hinges on disciplined execution and the right team composition for growth.