Champions League XI: Lesser known players who impressed

Zoran Tosic (CSKA Moscow)

Easily the standout performer on the pitch against Plzen. Tormented the back line with his precise runs and brilliant ball control and poise. Scored and set up a goal. Showed why Fergie picked him up from Belgrade and took him to Old Trafford.

Lerin Duarte (Ajax)

Brought in as a cover for the departing Christian Eriksen, Duarte has already endeared himself to the Aax fans with his tireless performances. Against Milan he was a delight to watch- spraying passes, incisive through balls, good set-piece deliveries. Was substituted when he picked up a knock. Naturally Ajax’s game dropped after that.

Simon Rolfes (Bayer Leverkusen)

Rolled back the years with an imperious performance against Real Sociedad. The ever present midfielder spread the play nicely and showed persistence to follow up his own attempt and score a goal. Brilliant display by the veteran midfielder.

Wanted to choose Pavel Horvath of Viktoria Plzen for this spot, but he kind of failed on the defensive front. His passing range against CSKA was brilliant though.

Bruma (Galatasaray)

Was a constant thorn in the side for the Juventus defense. His dribbling and ball control was excellent and certainly gave the likes of Chiellini and Bonucci a run for their money. Expect many more things from this pretender to the Ronaldo throne!

Carlos Vela (Real Sociedad)

His team might have lost, but Carlos Vela certainly won plaudits for his performance against Leverkusen. Could’ve scored more than just the one he did. He tormented Boenisch on several occasions and Mexico fans must be wondering why he still refuses to join up with the national team!

Konstantinos Mitroglou (Olympiakos)

First Greek player to ever score a hat-trick in the Champions League. Two unerring finishes and an unstoppable curler for the third. Genuine quality striker who is too good for the Greek league with three hat-tricks already this season. Keep a close eye on this one.

So here it was, my best XI of the week. Hopefully we will see some of these faces featuring in the knockout phases as well. Otherwise, I won’t have a similarly themed best XI to talk about!