FIFA World Cup 2014 Quarterfinals: Top 5 players

The quarter-final matches at the 2014 FIFA World Cup proved to be tight affairs, much like the ones in the early stages. While there were some inspired performances from the losers, what has been evident is that the quality of football in this World Cup has been astounding.Colombia and Costa Rica fought very hard to try and make history, but in the end, the heavyweights prevailed to set up two exciting clashes in the semifinal.In the end, the better teams won and two European nations along with two others from South America play in the semifinals. As we look forward to some breathtaking football in the upcoming matches, we shall look at five players who excelled in the quarterfinals and produced some memorable performances.Disclaimer: This list is in no particular order and is the opinion of the writer, and isin no wayendorsed by Sportskeeda.

#5 Toni Kroos

The German team is unfairly riddled with so many star players that Toni Kroos rarely gets his due. Despite being the best player for the side after Mats Hummels, Kroos hasn’t been on the receiving end of many plaudits or applauses.

The Bayern Munich midfielder is one of the most important players in the German line up and contributes a large part of Germany’s dominance in midfield. Often likened to midfield stalwarts of the recent past such as Xavi and Scholes, Kroos’ style of play is one that emphasizes on creating space for himself to utilize the ball to the maximum.

Against France, Kroos put on a spectacular display once again to propel his team to victory. While Hummels’ header was in the spotlight, Kroos was the man who built it. He won the free kick and provided an inch-perfect delivery for Hummels to head it into the top corner. 

Playing at the head of a three man midfield, Kroos provided the perfect link between the midfielders and the mobile attackers. His passing range allows him the luxury of dictating the game with little effort and to do it from the position of a No.10 shows his quality.