You shout out loud when the football lands at their feet, squeal when an opponent fouls on them, go crazy when they strike a goal and breathe heavy when they feel dejected. Such is the aura that these men/boys carry when they step into the field. Sunday Pioneer picks out a few men who up the ante everytime they make a move
Claudio Marchisio
Plays for Italy
He likes to confuse opponents with his double footwork which is watch-worthy. But what is also worth a dekho is his photo shoots for sports magazines. The stylish defender admits he adores the camera.
Olivier Giroud
Plays for France
The dashing striker is known for his moves on the field and off it as well. Although he keeps getting clicked by models in his private time, Giroud insists he is a one lady’s man!
David luiz
Plays for Brazil
They say his hair gives him an edge over his competitors but luiz believes it only ups his oomph factor. The focused luiz also went for a thorough teeth check-up before the big tournament.
Gerard Pique
Plays for Spain
Dashing centerback and Barcelona’s star, Pique got into every gossip mag after he married 37-year-old Shakira. But mommy tells you the guy is a hands-on daddy. “He changes diapers; enjoys bathing him. That's a real help for me,” Shakira told about Pique recently. Cool daddy meanwhile is looking for a special signage to dedicate a goal to his baby!
Iker Casillas
Plays for Spain
As hot a goalie can get this WC 2014, Casillas is another celebrity who is smitten with his new born boy. “It’s the most moving moment of my life. He is the most desired thing,” he tweeted.
Robin Van Persie
Plays for Netherlands
The Captain of the team, Persie has a thing for colours and style. According to reports, he doesn’t like to be casual about his dressing sense. Persie is also into matching accessories.
Juan Mata
Plays for Spain
When he attacks, Mata sets your pulse racing. But the humble 26-year-old unmarried footballer confessed that the ride to Manchester was very emotional as he was traveling with his parents.
Yoann Gourcuff
Plays for France
There is no stopping this attacking midfielder whose antics have been compared to Zidane. But Gourcuff is not letting anything ruin his WC moment. ‘I am here to enjoy,’ he tweeted.