Legends Russia 2018
Taking their final bow on the global stage in Russia, FIFA.com looks at four players with an indelible mark on the World Cup.
Andres Iniesta, SPAIN
34y/o
He has been a central figure ever since having earned his Spain debut before Germany 2006 kicked off. After playing his final game for Barcelona he is set to pull on the national shirt for the last time.
World Cup Debut: Saudi Arabia 0-1 Spain, June 23, 2006
Appearances: 10
Tournaments: 2006, 2010, 2014
Memorable World Cup moment: Scoring the goal that won the Final at South Africa 2010.
Rafael Marquez, MEXICO
39 y/o
Matching compatriot Antonio Carbajal and Germany’s Lothar Matthaus, Marquez will equal the all-time record of appearing at five World Cups should he play. Having already made his debut in 1997 he could have set a new record.
World Cup Debut: Mexico 1-0 Croatia, June 3, 2002
Appearances: 16
Tournaments: 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014
Memorable Cup moment: Scoring the equalizer in the opening game of South Africa 2010.
Javier Mascherano, ARGENTINA
33 y/o
This player has never been taken for granted, the fact that he has played every single minute of the last three World Cups that Argentina has played. Even though some people overlook the value of Mascherano.
He came so close four years ago for taking the title before being beaten by Germany, but however, he now has a chance to live out his dream with Argentina in Russia.
World Cup Debut: Argentina 2-1 Cote d’Ivoire, June 10, 2006
Appearances: 16
Tournaments: 2006, 2010, 2014
Memorable Cup moment: His 90th-minute tackle to deny Arjen Robben a winning goal in the Brazil 2014 semi-final.
Tim Cahil, AUSTRALIA
38 y/o
To his name, he has only five goals so far, but he is the only consistent figure of Australia’s modern World Cup era. He became the top scorer by becoming their record caps-holder in Russia.
World Cup Debut: Australia 3-1 Japan, June 12, 2006
Appearances: 8
Tournaments: 2006, 2010, 2014
Memorable World Cup moment: His impressive volley against the Netherlands at Brazil 2014.