FIFA World Cup 2010- The top 5 strikers
As we head into the finale of the tournament, we should have a look at those 5 strikers who made the difference for their side, and perhaps played the key role in their sides triumph over their opponents. These strikers may well be in the running for claiming the Golden boot and must be proud with their performance in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Starting off with number 5, Uruguay’s forward Luis Suarez, impressed with his brilliant goal scoring ability and timely runs. He formed a formidable partnership with Diego Forlan and was the main stay in Uruguay. Uruguay had to substitute a striker big enough to fill his shoes, and therefore both Forlan and Suarez started every game. Suarez’s hand ball against Ghana made him a bit notorious, but nonetheless scored 3 goals from 5 matches. He was unable to start for his side against Netherlands in the semi finals, and one thing is for sure, that without Suarez, Uruguay would not have gone so far. He has scored 49 times in 48 appearances for his club and used his lethal form to disrupt his opponents at the World Cup. He scored the winner against Mexico along with two goals against South Korea which led his team to the semi final.
At number 4, Brazil’s striker Luis Fabiano impressed greatly with his goal scoring ability. At the age of 29, this player runs like crazy, and is blessed with the natural finishing gift. It was fun to watch him play and do what he does best. He scored twice against Ivory Coast, including a spectacular one on one finish. He then scored against Chile, which was enough to take his team into the quarter finals. He is a truly skilled player, represents the true Brazilian flair and style and is a complete striker. He scored 21 times for his club this season, where he was injured mostly. Nevertheless, whenever he started, he scored. He returned to form and tormented any keeper who came in between him and his goal.
At the number three spot, Thomas Muller comes in. Before the World Cup, Muller was unknown, nobody knew about him and he was supposed to be “just another kid”. The German has however made a quick name for himself at the World Cup. He replaced the legendary Michael Ballack who was ruled out owing to a knee injury. Muller has scored four times so far in the tournament, along with making three assists for his team mates. At the age of 20, he looks to be better than many of the 30 year olds, and is confident against the toughest of opponents. He received a yellow card which made him miss the semi final clash against Spain. He is however a strong contender for the Golden Boot award. The Germans greatly missed the player’s presence in the semi final and many believe that things would have been different had he been on the pitch that day.
At number 2, we have Suarez’s partner, Diego Forlan. The former Manchester United man was in red hot form throughout the tournament, and knew that it was up to him to score goals.
He therefore took all the free kicks and corners, which were fruitful. He captained his side, and scored twice against hosts South Africa. He then scored a beautiful free kick against Ghana to level the scoring. Uruguay won on penalties and faced Netherlands in the semi final. A long distance strike from Forlan was the only goal when his side lost 3-2.
At the number one spot is undoubtedly the Spanish man David Villa who stood out from all his striking rivals. David Villa has scored 5 times out of a total 7 goals of Spain and is a strong contender for the Golden Boot award. He has started every game for his team, even though there are other stars which can be selected. He however is an established striker and enjoys quality finishing along with some awesome speed and ball control. He would want to win the World Cup along with the Golden Boot, and is most likely to bring his best in the final. David Villa has earned the respect of all the players, including opponents. He plays a clean game, and he attempts from wherever he gets the ball. His only goal against a strong Portuguese defence brought the Spanish side into the quarters.
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