World Cup: XI of best performers from matchweek 1

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YEKATERINBURG, RUSSIA – JUNE 15: Diego Godin of Uruguay wins a header from Marwan Mohsen of Egypt during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group A match between Egypt and Uruguay at Ekaterinburg Arena on June 15, 2018 in Yekaterinburg, Russia. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images) /

CB. Diego Godin – Uruguay

In a game as cagey as Uruguay’s game with Egypt was, you need someone to step up from the back.

It was, perhaps inevitably, the experienced Diego Godin who did just that. He remained calm under the rare Egypt pressure, as well as charging the ball forward whenever possible.

He showed his leadership qualities well, and he capitalized on the absence of Mo Salah with a terrific defensive display.

Although his performance will be somewhat overshadowed by the late Jose Gimenez goal, it’s important to remember the work which Godin put in to keep the game in Uruguay’s favor.

The strikers really weren’t on top of their game. In fact, you could argue that even Godin had a better input up top than Edinson Cavani and Luis Suarez.

When the team looks lethargic, it takes just one player to spark belief into the side.

With Godin playing under one of the best defensive coaches there is in Diego Simeone, his many years of training prevailed in this match.

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