2018 FIFA World Cup | First round heroes

Just one week into the 2018 World Cup, and we have seen everything — goals, misses, upsets, stunners, saves, passion, emotion, heroes and villains. It has been an enthralling contest on the pitch.

There are players who have been absolutely top draw and have won games for their sides on their own. They have shown quality, played some fascinating football and left everyone wanting for more.

Here are the top 5 best players from first round of games:

Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal

No surprises there. A stunning performance that was made ever more special by a ridiculously good free-kick, Cristiano Ronaldo had everyone mesmerised and in awe against Spain. A hat-trick that snatched a point for Portugal, it was a performance that again proved he is still the talisman at 33.

Aleksandr Golovin, Russia

First round heroes 2018 FIFA World Cup, FIFA World Cup 2018, Alexander Golovin — Alexander Golovin (R) was mightily impressive in win over Saudi Arabia (Photo: AFP)

The young CSKA Moscow midfielder is tipped for big things, and it’s hard to argue why. In the opening game of this year’s World Cup against Saudi Arabia, he had a near perfect game.

He set up the opening goal after his cross found Gazinskiy, who headed home. He was again the creator in Russia’s third goal, when he produced a lovely centre from the right that allowed Dzyuba to nod in. He wasn’t done there as he scored a stunning free kick in injury time to make it 5-0. A goal to cap off two assists is not too bad a start. He looks a star in the making.

Hannes Thor Halldorsson, Iceland

Hannes Thor Halldorsson was the hero for Iceland as the goalkeeper’s penalty save from Lionel Messi secured his side a sensational 1-1 draw against Argentina.

First round heroes, Hannes Halldorsson, Iceland, goalkeeper — Hannes Halldorsson saved Lionel Messi’s penalty in a solid display between the sticks (Photo: theScore)

Halldorsson guessed correctly, diving to his right to frustrate Messi, meaning the Barcelona star has now missed four of his last seven attempts from the spot for club and country. The Argentina captain was again denied twice by Halldorsson from distance in the first half.

The keeper also produced a late save to keep out an attempt from substitute Cristian Pavon as Iceland. His heroics meant Iceland came away with a point.

Hirving Lozano, Mexico

Hirving Lozano has captured the world’s interest after giving Mexico a shock win against Germany.

First round heroes, FIFA Wor;d Cup 2018, 2018 FIFA World Cup, Germany Football Team, Mexico Football Team — Hirving Lozano’s goal gave Mexico a shock victory over defending champions Germany (Photo: AFP)

His three deft touches on 35 minutes were matched by composure and a ruthless finish to sink the defending champions. The 22-year-old is one of South America’s hottest young talents, with many predicting a post-World Cup move from Holland to one of the major European leagues.

And many will be waiting keenly for the sequel after he delivered the perfect script in a deserved 1-0 victory over Germany.

Harry Kane, England

Harry Kane beat Tunisia on Monday night, but he did more than that. He beat the hand of history that was just minutes away from reasserting its cold grip over this England team, just as their World Cup was beginning. But an injury time winner from the captain made sure the English won their first opening game in 12 years at the World Cup.

His double giving England a narrow win over Tunisia. The hopes will bank on him throughout the tournament.