Left-footed World XI

When the final whistle sounded at the Estadio do Maracana, Rio de Janeiro on the 13th of July, 2014, the fruits of all the hard work and planning of 15 years had finally paid off for Germany – they had become the champions of the world. As the 11 players were given a standing ovation, what was interesting to note was that they were all right footed. Benedikt Howedes played at left-back and Andre Schurrle had replaced Mesut Ozil at left-wing.The only other left footer who took the field for them throughout the World Cup was Lukas Podolski, who was on the pitch for a shorter time than the vanishing spray. This left me astonished. How can a team, that too the best national team in the world, reach so far with same-footed players? We’ve all heard of the so-called balance, wherein the ideal situation is for a team to have the right blend of left and right footed players.But then, can an entirely left-footed team hold its own against the best in the business like Die Mannschaft did, with their right-footed army? Let’s look at how a southpaw-only World XI would look like. Our team plays with a midfield diamond and two up front. Substitutes: Petr Cech, Jordi Alba, Dante, Nemanja Matic, David Silva, Juan Mata, Daniel Sturridge. 

#1 Thibaut Courtois (GK)

Arguably the best young player in the world today, along with the likes of Neymar, James Rodriguez, Paul Pogba and Mario Gotze, Thibaut Courtois is among the most complete goal keepers in the world. Combining his intimidating physical presence with scarcely believable positional nous for a player so young, the Belgian can hold his own against any team and any player. The incredible save when faced one-on-one with Leo Messi at the World Cup is just one among a list of highlight reel moments for the Chelsea goalkeeper.

The very fact that he has kept Petr Cech out of the Chelsea team (and this list) is an achievement in itself, and shows how much Jose Mourinho values the former Atletico Madrid No.1. With his team on a high with high profile signings like Cesc Fabregas and Diego Costa hitting the ground running, things are only looking up for the 22 year old. Also, big things are expected of the Belgian National team in 2016, with their golden generation reaching their peak age. 

Expect Thibaut Courtois to win more silverware for club, country and himself in the years to come. There’s no better player to guard the sticks than the former Genk goalie, for our team.