By Paul Downey.
Luis Suarez (Uruguay) – Coming into the tournament on the back of a phenomenal scoring season with Ajax, Suarez finally broke his duck to ensure top spot for Uruguay with a superb header against Mexico.
Lionel Messi (Argentina) – I’m sure your sick of hearing his name but Messi continued to impress against a negative Greece side. Had the most shots of any player in the tournament but hasn’t registered on the scoresheet yet, expect that to change soon.
Clemente Rodriguez (Argentina) – A superb showing from Gabby Heinze’s understudy at left back. Not really tested defensively, but looked solid in possession, didn’t waste the ball and always eager to get forward.
James Milner (England) – Recalled for the crunch game with Slovenia, the Aston Villa man provided the only goal of the game for Jermain Defoe, as well as providing plenty of dangerous crosses from the right. His work rate was key late on, as England held on for the win.
Mesut Ozil (Germany) – The creative spark for the Germans against the determined Ghanaians, also scored a screamer to ensure a last 16 meeting with England. Always wanted the ball, and could be crucial to German hopes of reaching the latter stages.
Kevin Prince Boateng (Ghana) – Despite a narrow loss to the Germans, Ghana showed plenty of heart and attacking flair which can certainly trouble the USA in the second round. All of this was epitomised by the all-action display of Boateng who covered so much ground, as well as being full of tricks throughout. There should be no shortage of clubs wanting his signature come the end of the tournament.
Robert Vittek (Slovakia) – Two superb finishes from the Slovakian front man ensured the shock of the tournament so far, as holders Italy were sent packing at the first hurdle. Now joint top scorer with 3 goals, alongside Argentina’s Gonzalo Higuain.
Keisuke Honda (Japan) – Scored one superb freekick from distance, and his trickery also created Japan’s third in a deserved win over Denmark. The Japanese will definitely fancy their chances in the next round against Paraguay, as they have shown to be stubborn in defence with flair in attack.
Alexis Sanchez (Chile) – Really looks like a superstar in the making, lightning skills, a turn of pace and terrorised Capdevila down the Spanish left. The full back was certainly glad to see the back of him for the last 20 minutes.
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