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Russia World Cup 2018: Semi-finalists combined XI

By Thomas Bradley Alderman

SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA - JULY 10: Raphael Varane of France is challenged by Eden Hazard of Belgium during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Semi Final match between Belgium and France at Saint Petersburg Stadium on July 10, 2018 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA - JULY 10: Raphael Varane of France is challenged by Eden Hazard of Belgium during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Semi Final match between Belgium and France at Saint Petersburg Stadium on July 10, 2018 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images) /
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SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA – JULY 10: Raphael Varane of France is challenged by Eden Hazard of Belgium during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Semi Final match between Belgium and France at Saint Petersburg Stadium on July 10, 2018 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA – JULY 10: Raphael Varane of France is challenged by Eden Hazard of Belgium during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Semi Final match between Belgium and France at Saint Petersburg Stadium on July 10, 2018 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images) /

Defence

Raphael Varane

Varane is described as a Rolls-Royce by some. And rightly so. Fast, reliable, technically brilliant, fitting strength, picturesque and durable. Not to mention: a sixth sense, radar or foresight in reading the upcoming road/game play.

Varane won the 2018 Champions League. Only eight men have won both that competition and the World Cup in the same year.

Will France take their chance in spawning another generation of footballing legends under a fresh, fundamental coaching system?

John Stones

Stones had a wonderful tournament as England’s central defensive leader. His mistake partly handed the semi-final to Croatia – that was his only attributed accident.

Scoring two goals against Panama secured his place in English folklore and a position in my team for well-rounded qualities.

Whether he can maintain a starting position at the Etihad is debatable. Just remember, mate: please focus your eyes on the opponent.

Jan Vertonghen

Vertonghen probably would not make my team, but he is a usefully deft, left-footed defender. All the centre-backs are ball players – Vertonghen is no exception.

Possibly less confident than his partners in this dream team. Ironically that trait offers a more retiring, grounded approach.

Reliable and generally efficient. He allows others to roam into advanced positions, while securing their spot. Floats a lovely, accurate long pass as well.

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