Denis Cheryshev (Russia)

Russia’s star man has set the tournament alight in the group stage, but it could all have been so different – the left winger was a surprise inclusion in coach Stanislav Cherchesov’s squad when it was first announced. A creator of goals and a fine finisher, Cheryshev is now integral to the host nation’s hopes of reaching the quarter-finals.

Paul Pogba (France)

Death, taxes, criticism of Paul Pogba; some things in life are unavoidable. The midfielder’s subdued performances have been indicative of France as a whole at the World Cup, but a Pogba with a point to prove is never anything but compelling. Expect the Manchester United star to turn on the style in the knockout round.

Ivan Rakitić (Croatia)

Few players at the tournament have been able to elicit sighs of dreamy adulation from fans like midfield master Rakitić. Runs from deep, an expansive range of passing and a threat in front of goal with his pinpoint shooting – the pint-sized playmaker has got the lot. If Croatia are going to go all the way (and they’re capable), Rakitić will play a massive part.

Diego Costa (Spain)

Football’s ultimate pantomime villain, you just don’t know what Costa is going to do next – and that’s what makes him one of the most watchable players at the World Cup. Is he going to whack the ball past the goalkeeper? Is he just going to whack the goalkeeper? We have no idea. Just strap yourself in and enjoy the ride.

Philippe Coutinho (Brazil)

Forget Neymar, Brazil’s most scintillating player is Barcelona magician Coutinho. Dangerous outside the penalty area with his precision finishing, and also a threat inside the box, he’s already proved at this tournament why he’s one of the most exciting stars in the world’s game. Let him out of your sights at your peril.

Javier Hernández (Mexico)

Mexico’s master marksman is the sort of striker many teams have been crying out for at the World Cup. Playing on the shoulder of the last defender is Hernández’s strength, losing his man in the blink of an eye. And when it comes to the art of putting the ball in the back of the net, few players at the tournament are as effective as the West Ham United forward.

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