By Paul Downey.
With the competition hurdling towards the business end, the quality of the games is finally hitting the heights expected earlier. Here are some of our stars of the last eight:
Wesley Sneijder (Netherlands) – Was an integral cog of the Dutch machine which battled back from a goal down to beat much fancied Brazil. He has now been credited with the first goal, a cross which was nodded past his own keeper by Felipe Melo. The Inter Milan man has now scored four goals in the competition, and could even snatch the golden boot.
Diego Forlan (Uruguay) – The Atletico Madrid hitman was again the main man as the South Americans battled from a goal down to force extra time and penalties. His superb free kick brought the sides level in the second half, and also showed great nerve to convert from the spot in the shootout. Forlan is the key to Uruguay’s chances against the Dutch, but they could suffer with Luis Suarez suspended.
Asamoah Gyan (Ghana) – Phenomenal work rate from the Rennes front man who terrorised the Uruguay defence for 120 minutes. Showed great character to step up for Ghana’s first penalty after missing in extra time a few minutes earlier, the spot kick itself was superb too. Could have earned himself a big money move, after impressing throughout the tournament with three goals.
Kevin Prince Boateng (Ghana) – The Portsmouth man showed he can shine on the biggest stage of all, with an all-action display against Uruguay. He almost scored one of the goals of the tournament with a bicycle kick, and his movement and intelligent passing made him a constant threat. Boateng will be another who could earn a big money move, and maybe in the process help address some of Pompey’s financial woes.
Miroslav Klose (Germany) – Now the joint top scorer in International football for Germany, after two strikes helped to demolish Argentina. Showed great awareness to stay on side for his first which killed the game, and a great first time finish rounded off the rout. Now needs two goals to become the all-time record goalscorer in World Cup history ahead of Brazil’s Ronaldo.
Bastian Schweinsteiger (Germany) – Employed in the role usually kept by Michael Ballack, and has rose to the challenge with his influence never greater against Argentina. Dominated the centre of midfield with wonderful range of passing, and has really come of age as the tournament has progressed.
David Villa (Spain) – The European champions again stuttered past an average Paraguay side, and again relied on the Barcelona man’s striking instincts to drag them out the mire. Like Forlan he appears to be carrying his side at the moment, with Fernando Torres not looking match fit. Villa now has five goals and leads the race for the Golden Boot, and few would bet against him now.
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Is there anyone we have missed? If so please let us know who and why?
