World Cup 2018: 5 key players for Germany’s group stage opener against Mexico

#3 Toni Kroos, Midfielder (Germany)

Kroos in training

If the recent friendlies are anything to go by, Toni Kroos will be in-charge of the German midfield alongside Sami Khedira, the latter playing in a more defensive role.

Known for his passing finesse, vision and technique, Kroos has been an integral part of Real Madrid’s success over the years and we can say the same about his performances on national duty as well.

What sets him apart from the rest of his ilk is his ability to play in several midfield positions. If manager Joachim Low decides to play a different system than his preferred 4-2-3-1, he might deploy Kroos on the left flank or as a deep-lying playmaker.

“Games are won or lost in midfield” they say, and his exploits might as well decide as to who wins that midfield battle tomorrow.