Fansided

The best 30 players at the World Cup

By James Dudko

Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal during the International friendly match match between Portugal and The Netherlands at Stade de Genève on March 26, 2018 in Geneva, Switzerland(Photo by VI Images via Getty Images)
Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal during the International friendly match match between Portugal and The Netherlands at Stade de Genève on March 26, 2018 in Geneva, Switzerland(Photo by VI Images via Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
6 of 30
Next
Diego Costa of Atletico during the UEFA Europa League Final between Olympique de Marseille and Club Atletico de Madrid at Stade de Lyon on May 16, 2018 in Lyon, France. (Phoro by Mehdi Taamallah / Nurphoto)
Diego Costa of Atletico during the UEFA Europa League Final between Olympique de Marseille and Club Atletico de Madrid at Stade de Lyon on May 16, 2018 in Lyon, France. (Phoro by Mehdi Taamallah / Nurphoto) /

25. Diego Costa, striker, Spain

Normally, Diego Costa would rank higher on any list of this kind. However, there are legitimate reasons for why one of the most effective strikers set to perform at this World Cup ranks so low.

First, Costa made an unconvincing attempt to lead the line for Spain four years ago in Brazil. Then, a misfiring squad failed to progress beyond the group stage.

Costa didn’t score in two starts and instead found himself substituted during defeats to the Netherlands and Chile. His struggles led to him being left out for La Roja at Euro 2016.

Hs standing on the international stage has improved since, with a return to La Liga in January helping. Costa left Chelsea and went back to Atletico Madrid, winning the Europa League in the process.

While he earned a trophy, the 29-year-old only bagged seven goals during the first phase of his comeback tour with Los Rojiblancos.

Even so, there’s no denying Costa in peak form is a menace no defender at the World Cup will relish facing. His strength, aggression and ruthless efficiency can be the catalyst for a Spain squad still packed with midfield talent making up for recent feeble showings at this level.

Home/World Cup