With the World Cup under just two weeks away, Platform Online takes a look at some of the most awe-inspiring football player’s on the planet who will be donning their national teams jersey over the summer, hoping to lift that coveted golden trophy at the end.
Didier Drogba – Cote d’Ivoire
Chelsea’s formidable forward is a powerhouse full of muscle and dramatic emotion. When he’s not rolling around on the floor from the slightest touch, he’s slamming goal after goal into the back of the net. Caused controversy in Chelsea’s Champion’s League defeat to Barcelona last June when he openly swore on live TV. However, he’s likely to be the Premierships top striker this season and defiantly one to avoid in South Africa.
Iniesta & Xavi – Spain
Barcelona and Spain’s gruesome-twosome perfected their unbeatable partnership last year claiming the Spanish title, Champions League and Copa del Rey (Spain’s FA Cup equivalent) along the way. If you are unlucky to come across these two, you’d better prepare for quick one-touch footy with plenty of (extremely accurate) long range shots.
Lionel Messi – Argentina
Congratulations must go to the young 22-year-old after picking up the Ballon d’Or – awarded only to the finest players – and for piping Cristiano Ronaldo to the post. Argentina qualified for the World Cup by the skin of their teeth and many critics claim that Argie boss, Diego Maradonna, isn’t utilising Messi to his full potential. However, the five-foot, seven inch winger is still feared among defenders worldwide, and will almost certainly take his home nation most of the way.
Cristiano Ronaldo – Portugal
And speaking of the “winker”, Cristiano Ronaldo comes creeping onto our list. The Portuguese wonder broke thousands of Man Utd hearts in the summer when he forced a move to Spanish giants Real Madrid. However, team Portugal – coached by former Red Devils boss Carlos Queiroz – are half the team they were in the last World Cup under Big Phil Scolari. After drawing Brazil and Cote d’Ivoire in the group stages, it looks like Ronaldo will be packing his bags for an early plane ride home.
Torres & Villa – Spain
Two more Spaniards to make it onto our list, but this time, it’s a pair of forwards. Fernando Torres and David Villa – of Liverpool and Valencia respectively – have an unbelievable striker rate for their clubs, but are yet to form a decent partnership while playing for their country. However, this is bad news if you’re up against Spain, as the summer competition will provide both men with an opportunity prove themselves to the world once and for all.
Wayne Rooney – England
You can’t have an “ultimate shortlist” without the boy-wonder. Not only is Rooney young, talented and married to a fit wife with a newly-born son, he’s got a ton of skill and pace to match. He’ll be Fabio Capello and England’s secret weapon in the summer and – providing he’s on top form – we’ll be able to match any competition that comes our way.
James Haigh
Tags: football, south africa, world cup
my money’s on Spain!!!