Players at the 2018 World Cup: Europe XI vs Rest of World XI

MIDFIELD: Casemiro, Juan Quintero, and Philippe Coutinho

In the Rest of the World XI, Casemiro should function as the holding midfielder and provide the ‘screen’ in front of the back four. His role would be paramount due to Laxalt's attacking instincts. Since Laxalt would be playing high up the pitch, Casemiro would have to drop back to keep the shape of the team intact.

Casemiro was a calming influence for Brazil. In the game against Belgium, Brazil really missed Casemiro in the middle of the park. We could have been in for a very different outcome if Casemiro hadn't picked up his second yellow card against Mexico.

Coutinho should play alongside Quintero in midfield, ahead of Casemiro. He was in exceptional form for Liverpool and he’s carried that form to Barcelona as well. He became the second-most-expensive player in football history when he switched from Liverpool to FC Barcelona. However, if his performances are looked at, one can say that he has been worth every penny. Even at the World Cup, Coutinho came up with the goods for Brazil.

Quintero was irresistible at times for Colombia. He got his World Cup off to a flyer with an intelligent free-kick against Japan. He quickly became the chief creator for Colombia. Colombia missed the services of their ace play-maker, James Rodriguez. Quintero, however, made sure that Colombia did not miss James in any way.

The primary task for Casemiro would be to break up the Europeans’ play and not let them get into a passing rhythm. Once they get the ball back, Quintero and Coutinho are efficient enough to recycle it and create chances for their front three.