FIFA World Cup: Who are the best forwards this term?
What's the story
There is plenty of firepower heading to Russia this year and the teams' preparations for the 2018 FIFA World Cup are in full swing. Expect plenty of goals when European and South American heavyweights take the field in their quest for the coveted title. We decided to take a look at the top five forwards who will set the World Cup alight in Russia.
Poland
German champion Robert Lewandowski
Lewandowski is one of the most feared strikers in world football right now and will shoulder the task of leading Poland's attack. He was the top scorer in the World Cup qualifiers with 16 goals to his name. Since moving to Germany with Bayern Munich, Lewandowski has scored 106 goals in just 126 games. He is averaging close to one goal every game.
England
England captain Harry Kane
Undoubtedly, Harry Kane is one of the top strikers. He is heading to his first World Cup with England. Kane scored 21 EPL goals in 2014/15, then improved it to 25 in 2015/16, took it to 29 in 2016/17 and has now finished the last season with 30 goals. Named the captain of England, Kane will look to lead from the front.
Portugal
Dangerous Cristiano Ronaldo
5-time Ballon d'Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo is the most prolific player of this generation. After leading Portugal to Euro 2016 glory, Ronaldo will be looking to inspire them to a World Cup title. With 44 goals and 8 assists in 44 games, Ronaldo has regained his scoring touch after a slow start to his season.
Argentina
Little Magician Lionel Messi
Argentina's greatest footballer since Diego Maradona, Lionel Messi will be heading to his 4th World Cup with the Albiceleste. The 30-year-old has won every honor in club football except a major trophy with Argentina. Messi lived up to his high standards this season with 45 goals and 18 assists in 54 games.
Brazil
Brazilian talisman Neymar Jr
Brazil faced a 7-1 annihilation in the hands of Germany in the last World Cup at home. Neymar sat that semi-final match out due to an injury. In Russia, the world's most expensive footballer has another chance to lead the Selecao to their record 6th title. Neymar has scored 28 goals and bagged 17 assists in 30 games for PSG before getting injured.