World Cup: XI of best performers from matchweek 1

SOCHI, RUSSIA - June 15: Cristiano Ronaldo #7 of Portugal looks on during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group B match between Portugal and Spain at Fisht Stadium on June 15, 2018 in Sochi, Russia. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
SOCHI, RUSSIA - June 15: Cristiano Ronaldo #7 of Portugal looks on during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group B match between Portugal and Spain at Fisht Stadium on June 15, 2018 in Sochi, Russia. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
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SAMARA, RUSSIA – JUNE 17: Aleksandar Kolarov of Serbia celebrates victory following the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group E match between Costa Rica and Serbia at Samara Arena on June 17, 2018 in Samara, Russia. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
SAMARA, RUSSIA – JUNE 17: Aleksandar Kolarov of Serbia celebrates victory following the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group E match between Costa Rica and Serbia at Samara Arena on June 17, 2018 in Samara, Russia. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

LB. Aleksandar Kolarov – Serbia

For me, Aleksandar Kolarov is one of the most underrated players.

Okay, he may not have been amazing at Manchester City, but it’s hard to stand out in a dressing room full of stars.

My personal thoughts aside, I think we can all agree how good Kolarov was against Costa Rica.

Of course, we all remember Kolarov’s performance for his goal, and what a sublime free kick that was. However, his input went further than just his goal, which was personified when he picked up the man of the match award.

He looked to bomb forward and win possession in the other half, as well as in his own. This is his trademark, as even with age, his work ethic is amazing.

Serbia were always expected to win, but given their track record, there was doubt. Kolarov brushed all that doubt aside when his free kick fired into the net, and he won the hearts of many.

He left many City fans reminiscing, but they’ll know he simply wasn’t good enough. Since joining AS Roma, he’s improved drastically, and he looks to be getting better with age.

Keep going, Kolarov!