ü Neymar: Neymar scored twice in his first appearance, but he was lucky to even stay on the pitch as he was booked for elbowing Luka Modric. All said, His presence was a factor in Brazil’s comeback victory.
ü Diego Costa: The converted Spanish helped Spain nab the penalty, which led to the first goal, against Netherlands. However, he didn’t make much impact thereafter and was replaced by Torres.
ü Iker Casillas and Co: Diego Costa was a special mention just because he helped with the penalty, but the remaining Spanish team didn’t impress anyone. There is one other special mention though, Mr. Iker Casillas. Not to point fingers or place blame, but it is imperative to know that Casillas has passed his prime. (However, Casillas and the star powered team has the capability of turning the tide, a sight that is very much welcome.)
ü Robin van Persie: He produced the tournament’s first memorable goal (the diving or flying header), but that is not the only thing he achieved. He and Arjen Robben (the next man on the list) ripped Spain apart and produced a terrific comeback victory for Netherlands.
ü Arjen Robben: Robben is in a terrific form off late. He was a crucial part of Netherland’s comeback against Spain. Both Robben and Robin van Persie gave a landmark performance.
ü Wayne Rooney: Rooney, arguably the most popular player of the team, had a very odd game against Italy. He seemed slow against the backdrop of a newer, faster English offense. However, Rooney is expected to elevate his game.
ü Super Mario: Mario Balotelli scored the second and winning goal in their game against England. Balotelli, who seems mature, is shaping up to be a clinical striker for Italy.
ü Luis Suarez: Fortunately, Luis Suarez was in the bench when his team suffered a 3-1 loss against Costa Rica. The striker was benched for the game because of an injury.
ü Leonel Messi: Messi’s goalscoring ability while donning his national attire has been questioned for a long time. However, Messi had other ideas as the captain produced a terrific goal to win their match against Bosnia. Messi has announced his arrival in the tournament.
ü Karim Bezema: The in-form Real Madrid striker missed out on a hat-trick because of the new goal line technology. He was in great shape, providing the much needed goals in France’s game against Honduras.
ü Cristiano Ronaldo: The Portugal captain failed to mark his arrival to the tournament. Both him and his team had a day to forget. Ronaldo, who was not a hundred per cent fit, was isolated from the game. However, Ronaldo would surely look forward to come back strong in the next match.
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