Adidas Golden Ball Candidates Announced Fifa has officially announced the names of the ten players in the running for the adidas Golden Ball, which is awarded to the 2014 World Cup’s most outstanding performer. The shortlist was drawn up by Fifa’s Technical Study Group, the ten contenders for the prestigious accolade are as follows: James Rodriguez (Colombia) Rodriguez has proved his ability to rise to the big occasion. His haul of six goals in five outings was a major reason why Los Cafeteros broke new ground in reaching the last eight for the first time. Mats Hummels (Germany) The centre-half has attracted much praise for his solid displays at the heart of the German defence. He has has also impressed at the other end of the pitch, rising high to score against Portugal in the group phase and head home the winner against France in the quarter-finals. Toni Kroos (Germany) Kroos ran the show when Germany hammered Brazil 7-1 in the semi-finals, dominating the midfield and posing a constant threat with his passing and shooting, which brought him two goals – all in a day’s work for this most consistent of performers. Lionel Messi (Argentina) Messi had never scored at the world finals prior to Brazil 2014, a record he emphatically set straight with some lethal finishing in each of Argentina’s three group matches and has remained an influential figure for his side. Arjen Robben (Netherlands) He has been in unmatched form since putting defending champions Spain to the sword in his side’s opening match. His incisive runs from deep have been a feature of the tournament. Philipp Lahm (Germany) The Midfielder and Germany captain has had a considerable influence on Joachim Low’s side. Javier Mascherano (Argentina) Argentina have been solid in defence and thanks must go to Mascherano for his tireless work in providing the Albiceleste rearguard with essential protection. Angel Di Maria (Argentina) Di Maria has led the Albiceleste attack with distinction, posing a constant menace to opposing defences with his long-range shooting, dribbling and finishing skills, which he showcased with a well-taken winner against Switzerland in the Round of 16. Thomas Muller (Germany) Muller picked up where he left off at South Africa 2010, where he collected the adidas Golden Boot. His performances since have underlined his status as the spearhead of Germany’s deadly front line. Neymar (Brazil) He is the livewire forward for Brazil and had the responsibility of leading Brazil. Neymar was his side’s stand-out performer with four goals before an unfortunate injury ended his tournament in the quarter-finals. The winners of the adidas Golden Ball, Silver Ball and Bronze Ball will all be announced after Sunday’s Final between Argentina and Germany. Who do you think will win it?
Posted on: Sat, 12 Jul 2014 12:31:01 +0000
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