Goalkeeper: Claudio Bravo (Chile) – Recently signed by Barcelona from Real Sociedad, Claudio Bravo has been a highly impressive performer at the 2014 World Cup, outshining his opposite number Julio Cesar as one of the top goalkeeprs in this year’s competition.
Right-back: Dani Alves (Brazil) – One of the finest attacking full-backs in the game, Dani Alves remains a must-have in this starting XI, even if he is not quite the same force of nature that he was at his best a few years ago for Barcelona. A player who still has that match-winning moment of quality in him that could prove crucial as the tournament goes on.
Left-back: Marcelo (Brazil) – A Champions League winner with Real Madrid, Brazilian left-back Marcelo is another key component in his side as he and Dani Alves combine to provide much of the width in Scolari’s setup. With an eye for goal and assists, Marcelo can be very dangerous when he gets forward, even if he isn’t necessarily the most solid defender in the game.
Centre-back: Thiago Silva (Brazil) – Widely regarded as one of the best centre-backs in the world, Thiago Silva is a key player and leader for his country, and his performances will surely be vital if he is to go on to lift the World Cup trophy later this summer.
Centre-back: Gary Medel (Chile) – A somewhat surprising inclusion for the Cardiff City star, but it is hard to ignore how good the Chilean has looked in this competition, playing in a deeper role than he usually does with his club as he fills in as one of three central defenders in his country’s setup. A worthy partner to Thiago Silva based on performances so far.
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