So regularly, when made up for lost time in the enthusiasm of a FIFA World Cup, you don’t get an opportunity to make a stride back and consider what you’re seeing. A few players we will have invested hours of our lives with, watching them at work, engaging fans far and wide.
In any case, every single good thing must arrive at an end. In front of the 2018 version, thus these are the four players who have left a permanent check on the World Cup and will take their last bow on the worldwide stage in Russia.
1. Rafael Marquez, 39 (Mexico)
“I don’t think there are enough words to describe what he represents to all Mexican players. If I have to give him my spot, I’d let him have it.”
World Cup debut: Mexico 1-0 Croatia, 3 June 2002
Tournaments: 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014
Appearances so far: 16
Memorable World Cup moment: Scoring the equalizer in the opening game of South Africa 2010.
2. Andres Iniesta, 34 (Spain)
“He’s the most talented Spanish player of all time.”
Xavi, ex-Barcelona and Spain team-mate
World Cup debut: Saudi Arabia 0-1 Spain, 23 June 2006
Tournaments: 2006, 2010, 2014
Appearances so far: 10
Memorable World Cup moment: Scoring the goal that won the Final at South Africa 2010.
3.Tim Cahill, 38 (Australia)
“Timmy was Timmy, that’s why he’s the greatest ever.”
Ange Postecoglou, former coach after Cahill sent the Socceroos to their Russia 2018 intercontinental play-off
Tournaments: 2006, 2010, 2014
Appearances so far: 8
Memorable World Cup moment: His thunderous volley against the Netherlands at Brazil 2014.
4. Javier Mascherano, 33 (Argentina)
“Javier is one of the most intelligent players I’ve ever seen in my career.”
Pep Guardiola, former coach at Barcelona
World Cup debut: Argentina 2-1 Cote d’Ivoire, 10 June 2006
Tournaments: 2006, 2010, 2014
Appearances so far: 16
Memorable World Cup moment: His 90th-minute tackle to deny Arjen Robben a winning goal in the Brazil 2014 semi-final.