The 5 most skilled players at the World Cup, and their awesome mixtapes
The World Cup will feature tremendous displays of skill and talent. With Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, Lionel Messi, Wayne Rooney, and Robin van Persie set to enter the world’s spotlight, prepare to be dazzled by numerous sidesteps, volleys, backheels, one touch passes, nutmegs, Cruyff turns, step-overs, and Ronaldo chops.
Here’s an example of some of the things you can expect to see this summer from five of the world’s top players.
Lionel Messi, Argentina
[Courtesy YouTube user HeilRJ03]
When you think of football highlight reels and top plays, Lionel Messi is usually one of the first players to come to mind. In addition to breaking records and winning silverware, Messi has made a habit of humiliating opposing players with his incredible footwork and ability to improvise.
The Barcelona talisman struggled with injuries this season, but is fully fit and set to dazzle the onlookers in Brazil.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Real Madrid
[Courtesy YouTube user HeilRJ03]
Cristiano Ronaldo is every bit as dazzling as Messi, but he manages to add a little more flair and pizazz.
Ronaldo is no stranger to incredible plays and innovation, especially with his famous “Ronaldo Chop” stopping defenders dead in their tracks. Regardless of the situation, Ronaldo is capable of absolutely confusing and bewildering defenders, en route to scoring a goal.
Wayne Rooney, England
[Courtesy YouTube user JavierNathaniel]
It’s obvious England will rely heavily on Wayne Rooney, thanks to his energy, hustle, determination and work ethic. The Manchester United forward is capable of scoring, assisting, providing his team with a momentum change, and tracking back on defense.
With Daniel Sturridge, Raheem Sterling, and Danny Welbeck plying their trade for England as well, expect Rooney to cause tones of havoc among the back line of opposing teams.
Robin van Persie, Netherlands
[Courtesy YouTube user Manchu]
Despite enduring a difficult spell with Manchester United this season, Robin van Persie seemed reinvigorated towards the end of the campaign. Although he managed only 12 Premier League goals in 2013-14, Van Persie's previous three seasons with Arsenal and Manchester United have been nothing less than outstanding.
There's no denying that the Netherlands captain will be on a mission in Brazil, which could potentially be his final World Cup.
Neymar, Brazil
[Courtesy YouTube user HeilRJ03]
In addition to becoming one of the most exciting players in football, Neymar has become a YouTube sensation thanks to jaw-dropping goals, skills, assists, and speed. Only 22 years old, Neymar is quickly becoming one of the game's most recognized dribblers.
With the World Cup being hosted by his native country, the Brazilian is expected to showcase his unbelievable talents throughout the tournament.