The past week saw blistering performances from some of the top players in the world, along with Balotelli and Higuain five players were particularly impressive.
Mario Balotelli
Since his return to Italy, the controversial yet extremely talented striker has been a revelation for AC Milan. And, the striker justified his selection in Cesare Prandelli’s side by scoring one goal for the national side as Italy drew 2-2 against Brazil.
He might have missed a few good chances but there’s no denying the fact that the former Manchester City striker is slowly yet surely on his way to realise a full potential that was seen only in small parts during his time in England.
Paired up with club teammate Stephan El-Sharaway, Balotelli formed an excellent partnership up front and together, the duo did well to make a nuisance of itself against a Brazil side that is still far from the finished product.
Gonzalo Higuain
Argentina beat Venezuela 3-0 at home to edge closer to a place in the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and the Albiceleste had to thank Gonzalo Higuain for scoring one goal apiece in each half. Although he might not be rated that highly back in Spain, the Real Madrid striker kept the tradition of scoring regularly for his national side. Perfect runs and superb finishing defined Higuain’s performance, as he grabbed headlines instead of Lionel Messi who assisted the Madrid man for his first goal.
Blaise Matuidi
First with Paris Saint-Germain and now with France, the defensive midfielder has become an integral part of two sides that still have a lot to prove. Though he never commanded the confidence of former Les Bleus manager Laurent Blanc, Matuidi has successfully integrated in Didier Deschamps’ side.
In the 3-1 win over Georgia, Matuidi played on the safe side and although he was less prominent than usual, the former Saint-Etienne man did his job pretty well. Some might criticise him for being less adventurous in the offense, Matuidi managed to do what Deschamps asked for him superbly as France gave a good account of themselves ahead of a crucial qualification game at home against Spain who were held to a 1-1 draw by a plucky Finland.
Mathieu Valbuena
Le Petit Velo as he is affectionately called by his fans and friends delivered a master class performance for France. The Olympique de Marseille man simply took the game by the scruff of his neck and made it rain and shine at free will.
The stylish midfielder was on song throughout the game and was involved in all three goals that Les Bleus scored including the second one which was an unstoppable half volley delivered with extreme panache. Deservingly, Vlabuena was given a standing ovation by the crowd at Stade de France as he was replaced by Loic Remy in the 66th minute. A colossal performance from a player, who could play a crucial role in his team’s crunch encounter with Spain.
Wayne Rooney
The Manchester United star once again showed his versatility as he often came deep to orchestrate England’s ruthless attack in the 8-0 mauling of San Marino who were all over the place. First he assisted Oxlade-Chamberlain’s goal and then scored one of his own from a beautifully shaped free-kick to take his international tally to 34 goals.
Honourable mentions
Apart from these aforementioned stars, the likes of Lionel Messi, Mario Gotze, Ahsley Young, Christian Eriksen and Eden Hazard all did extremely well for their respective teams.
What to expect from these star performers
It will be interesting to see how these players phase up in their upcoming fixtures. Mario Balotelli’s Italy will take on Malta and it will be interesting to see if he can extend his goal scoring run.
Higuain has managed to up haul his compatriot Lionel Messi by becoming the top scorer in the qualifiers, can he continue to mesmerise?
After an easy fixture against Georgia, Blaise Matuidi and Mathieu Valbuena will now face World Champions Spain. Can the duo repeat their antics and guide France to a victory?
Manchester United star Wayne Rooney will be facing Group eight leaders Montenegro. Last time around the hot headed striker was sent off for kicking a Montenegrin player, can “Wazza” keep his cool and inspire the three lions to a victory?
All questions to be answered in yet another interesting week ahead.
