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Defenders
Kieran Trippier
Arguably England’s best player in Russia, Kieran Trippier was fantastic at the World Cup. His deliveries, whether from a dead ball situation or crossing it in after bombing down the wing, were second to none. To put into perspective just how good his passing was, no other player created more chances than Trippier’s 24 at the World Cup.
From corners, indirect free kicks or even direct free kicks like we saw against Croatia in the semifinals, Trippier's crossing was deadly. He finished the tournament with a goal and an assist.
Right Back honourable mentions: Thomas Meunier, Šime Vrsaljko
Diego Godín
Uruguay's leader, Diego Godín led by example as Uruguay fought with heart and passion in each game. The South American side boasted one of the best defences in Russia as they conceded zero goals in the group stage and only conceded from two set pieces and a Fernando Muslera howler in the knockout rounds and the captain was at the heart of that defence.
Nothing got past him. He was a colossus in the air and never pulled out of a tackle. In a team where the two star strikers made all the headlines, Godín was arguably Uruguay's best player at the World Cup.
Raphaël Varane
Raphaël Varane has accomplished a ridiculous amount at just the age of 25 and he can now add World Cup winner to his list of accolades. Varane was a key part of France’s side, making the most clearances in Russia with 44. But he also delivered at the other end of the pitch, scoring against Uruguay in the quarters. Varane put on world-class display after world-class display and should definitely be considered among the world’s best defenders now.
Centre Back honourable mentions: Samuel Umtiti, Dejan Lovren
Lucas Hernández
Lucas Hernández was another key part of France’s defence. Only making his international debut in March, Hernández was absolutely amazing in Russia. Unlike most fullbacks these days, Hernández is first and foremost a defender, making 16 tackles, more than anyone else. But he isn't a slouch in attack either, playing a key role bombing up and down the left-hand side and assisting Benjamin Pavard’s goal of the tournament against Argentina.
Left Back honourable mentions: Diego Laxalt, Ivan Strinić
