Brasilia, Brazil: Imagine having World Cup standouts Lionel Messi, Neymar, James Rodriguez and Arjen Robben all in the same team. After two weeks and 48 group-stage games in what is widely considered the best World
Brasilia, Brazil: Imagine having World Cup standouts Lionel Messi, Neymar, James Rodriguez and Arjen Robben all in the same team.
After two weeks and 48 group-stage games in what is widely considered the best World Cup in a generation, there are already some players who have shone above the rest.
Below is a composite team of the tournament so far, in the heavily favored 4-3-3 formation, selected by writers covering the World Cup for The Associated Press:
GOALKEEPER: Guillermo Ochoa, Mexico
Briefly punctured the euphoria in an expectant host nation by producing a series of stunning saves to secure Mexico a 0-0 draw against Brazil. One particular save, from Neymar's header, will go down in World Cup folklore. The only goal he conceded was a late consolation by Croatia in the final group game. Is currently a free agent and will surely get snapped up after the tournament.
RIGHT BACK: Serge Aurier, Ivory Coast
One of the few positives in an otherwise disappointing campaign for Ivory Coast, Aurier has stood out for his marauding thrusts down the right flank and his crossing ability that set up goals for Wilfried Bony and Gervinho in the 2-1 win over Japan. Expected to seal a move to a big club from Toulouse this summer on the back of his displays in Brazil.
