Get to know top players of Group C

Group C

Colombia: James Rodríguez

With Radamel Falcao failing to recover in time from a serious knee injury, the Monaco attacking midfielder’s link-up play with his forwards to make-up for Falcao’s absence will prove crucial if the South Americans are to progress to the next round.

Greece: Giorgos Karagounis

The veteran captain remains a central figure in the Greek side. Having won over 100 caps for the national side and at 37, Karagounis and his supporting cast which includes Giorgos Samaras and Theofanis Gekas, will be key figures in helping the team bring back the days of Euro 2004 in what appears to be the skipper’s last World Cup.

Côte d’Ivoire: Yaya Toure

If the World Cup to him, is as important as his birthday, then the Elephants can expect Yaya Toure to produce nothing less than his best, if fit. The Man City midfielder netted 20 times last season to help steer City to their second Premier League crown in three years. Should he, Didier Drogba and the rest come to the party, the Elephants could finally do justice to their talented line-up, in a major tournament.

Japan: Shinji Kagawa

It’s fair to say that Kagawa has struggled to impress at United who have played him in his non-preferential position out wide whenever given the chance to be on the pitch. But with his talisman status for Japan, he’ll get the opportunity to once again showcase what he’s capable of when instilled in his favourite number ten slot right behind the attack. -@SabeloBoksburg