Unsung heroes of the 2018 FIFA World Cup
What's the story
The 2018 FIFA World Cup has been a story of the underdogs. Despite France winning the 2018 edition, this tournament will be best remembered for how the minnows knocked the favorites out of the tournament. As a tribute to this exciting and thrilling World Cup, we take a look at the unsung heroes of the 2018 edition.
France
The hard worker: N'Golo Kante
Every team has a player who does all the dirty work, for France, it was Kante. Having this man in your mid-field is equal to having an extra player. The mid-field dynamo was crucial in interrupting play and man marking especially against Argentina where he tried to negate Messi. His cushion helped Mbappe and Griezmann to run forward with no worries.
Croatia
The 'real' hero: Ivan Perisic
Croatia won several hearts with their football during this World Cup. While Luka Modric, Ivan Rakitic and Mario Mandzukic were the key players in their stellar campaign, Perisic was undoubtedly their most effective player with three goals and an assist including a goal in the final. The 29-year-old created several chances and was always a threat on the wings.
Belgium
The leader: Vincent Kompany
Belgium's golden generation did not disappoint at the World Cup as the finished third; their highest ever finish in the tournament. While the likes of Eden Hazard, Thibaut Courtois, Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku stole all the plaudits, Belgium captain Vincent Kompany must not be forgotten. He was a rock at the back and one of the architects of their campaign.
England
The tactician: Gareth Southgate
England made it to the semi-finals of the World Cup after close to three decades of disappointment. And the credit should go to manager Gareth Southgate, who decided to take a team of youngsters to Russia. Southgate not just brought the best out of his boys, he got England believing again. He made the whole nation to fall in love with the beautiful game.