FIFA World Cup 2014: 3 Key Players to Watch
The FIFA World Cup 2014 is almost upon us, the fans are beginning to arrive and the football teams are ready to take the challenge to compete for the summer’s tournament, starting on June 12.
Home advantage could be an important factor for Brazil, who are the favorites to lift the World Cup trophy for the sixth time.
So, it’s time for The Football Saga to take a look at who we think the three key players of the biggest football festival in Brazil will be…
Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal
Age: 29
Club: Real Madrid
Cristiano Ronaldo, who plays as a forward for La Liga giants Real Madrid and captains the Portugal national team.
The Portuguese striker, who made his international debut in August 2003 – has been capped 110 times and the leading top goalscorer of all time with 49 goals.
The two times FIFA Ballon d’Or winner has 252 goals in 246 appearances for the Real Madrid.
Ronaldo is the man, who scored all four goals including a hat trick in the second leg of Portugal’s World Cup play-off against Sweden. This might be the last world cup for the 29-year-old striker so he will definitely try out his best performance to add the World Cup into the list of his achievements.
Lionel Messi, Argentina
Age: 26
Club: Barcelona
Lionel Messi, who plays as a forward for La Liga club Barcelona.
The Argentine striker, who made his international debut on August 2005 – has been capped 83 times with 37 goals for his nation.
The four-time reigning Ballon d’Or winner has 276 goals in 243 appearances for Barcelona.
The 26-year-old Messi is known for his finishing, pace and passing ability. He is capable of playing either wing or through the centre of the pitch.
Neymar, Brazil
Age: 22
Club: Barcelona
Neymar, who plays as a forward or winger for the Spanish club Barcelona.
The Brazilian striker, who made his international debut on August 2010 – has been capped 48 times with 31 goals for his country.
The 22-year-old Neymar is all set to make his World Cup debut against Croatia in the opening game on June 12. With his outstanding dribbling skills and playmaking ability are the hopes of Brazil.