Lionel Messi
Argentina barely scrapped through the qualifying stages only to put themselves in one of the toughest groups alongside Iceland, Croatia and Nigeria. Lionel Messi’s heroics in the last match managed to keep them afloat, but Argentina will have to do a lot more for glory.
Cristiano Ronaldo
Arguably one of the best players in the world, Ronaldo has joked about how he wants to play till he turns 41. But keeping in mind that he will turn 37 come next World Cup, it would be safe to assume that this could be Ronaldo’s farewell tournament. Surrounded by players like Bernardo Silva and Ricardo Quaresma, Portugal have a long shot at the cup.
Luis Suarez
The feisty Uruguayan has been without any major controversy since his transfer to Barcelona. Given that he is one of the best strikers in the world despite the fitness issues, speaks leagues about his grit and character. With strong mid-field, defense and attack, Uruguay has one of the most balanced teams in this World Cup.
Thiago Silva
Russia 2018 is going to be Brazil’s year of redemption after their 1-7 loss in the 2014 semis. At 33 years of age, Thiago Silva has probably seen it all. He was a leader who fell at the 14 WC and lost his place in the PSG, but bounced back to get into the Brazil team under tremendous competition. Led by Neymar this year, Silva and Brazil would hope to avenge last year’s results to script their dream comeback in Russia.
Luka Modric
The master in mid-field, and the magician with the ball, Luka Modric at 33 will be on his last WC outing in his national colours. Playing at the traditional no 10 role for Croatia this year, Modric will be essential to his team’s mechanics. The unsung hero of Real Madrid along will look to work with Ivan Rakitic to brew creativity in the field for Croatia.
Having already missed a world cup in 2010 due to injury, he is likely to go out all guns blazing in the group of death in the FIFA World Cup 2018.