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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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NIZHNY NOVGOROD, RUSSIA – JULY 01: Luka Modric of Croatia misses a penalty during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between Croatia and Denmark at Nizhny Novgorod Stadium on July 1, 2018 in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
NIZHNY NOVGOROD, RUSSIA – JULY 01: Luka Modric of Croatia misses a penalty during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between Croatia and Denmark at Nizhny Novgorod Stadium on July 1, 2018 in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images) /

Midfield

Kieran Trippier

The Englishman is considered a candidate for Player of the Tournament. A breakout performance on the largest stage outlined his star power. Tottenham may cash in on their emerging star: short-sighted, maybe.

He is currently the World’s best wing-back by form and profile. And his rival – or now his understudy – Serge Aurier, is a premiership liability.

Luka Modric

Modric is generally considered the finest creative midfielder of his generation. Winning four Champions League titles with Real Madrid oozes class and quality.

Like club teammate, Varane, he has the chance to become only the ninth player to win the top domestic and international honour in the same season.

If Croatia win the competition in their first final, expect the Los Blancos playmaker to win the Golden Ball.

N’Golo Kante

The Chelsea midfielder makes the team. I wanted to fit in Kevin De Bruyne, but alas, I needed a combative tackler. There are figuratively two Kante’s playing at once.

His endurance, selflessness and commitment are second to none. Making him a definite inclusion. Some even consider him a Golden Ball prospect. A defensive-midfielder simply being mentioned on that echelon, illustrates his worth.

Antoine Griezmann

I know, I know. He would ideally be more forward. Though he must be included – one way or another. Effortlessly chic football makes him imperative to any team.

Just look at the furore surrounding his non-exit at Atletico Madrid. A set-piece expert who creates and scores. In addition to managing ball retention for a match leading team, is the order of the day. Under this emerging leader and established star player – France are excelling. He says he is ‘intent on adding a second star to Les Bleus’ chest’.

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