We’re almost less than 4 days away from a crazy 25 days of non-stop football action, and the countdown has begun! To commemorate this, let’s have a look at 5 of the players that we’ll definitely be looking out for as they will be playing a big part in their country’s role to win the much coveted World Cup:
- Lionel Messi (Argentina)
[Image Credits to Independent]
At just 26, Messi is a four-time World Player of the Year and is arguably one of the most outstanding players over the past five years. If Argentina wins the World Cup this year and Messi has the influence that he so often has at club level, then he would surely be elevated to the status of Maradona and Pele, among the greatest we’ve ever seen.
- Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
Everybody knows who he is; Cristiano Ronaldo is now perhaps, alongside Lionel Messi and David Beckham, the best-known player on the planet. The Portugal captain is also the 2013 winner of the FIFA Ballon d’Or, and has also won the Champions League with Real Madrid. Scoring 55 goals in just 45 appearances for club and country in 2013-14, a large part of his country’s hopes for winning rest upon his shoulders.
- Neymar (Brazil)
[Image Credits to All About FC Barcelona]
Born on February 5, 1992, in São Paulo, Brazil, Neymar drew attention for his impressive soccer abilities at an early age. His small frame masks incredible skill and speed, silencing doubters with his top-class ability to finish off both feet
- Mesut Ozil (Germany)
[Image Credits to Telegraph]
Arsenal attacking midfielder Ozil is only 25, but his finesse and skills has already been compared to football legends. Former manager José Mourinho likened him to Real Madrid legend Zinedine Zidane, massive shoes which he has no trouble filling.
- Andres Iniesta (Spain)
[Image Credits to Superfootball]
With recent rumors of links to Manchester United, 29-year-old Iniesta is a beast on midfield, and is even hailed by fellow superstar Xavi as “Spain’s most complete player.” Known for his passing, dribbling, vision and movement, he is definitely a player to watch on the Spanish team, and in fact even the whole tournament.
So which player will you look out for in the World Cup and who do you think will win the World Cup 2014 this year?