Which FIFA World Cup player will win the Golden Ball?
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The FIFA World Cup Golden Ball is awarded to the tournament's best player. The Golden Ball isn't always awarded to the tournament's flashiest player, biggest star, or top scorer. Instead, the Golden Ball is given to the player who has been the most important to his team during the event. Past winners include Lionel Messi, Diego Forlan, and Zinedine Zidane.
Now with the World Cup kicking off the semifinal stage on Tuesday, which players have a chance to win the Golden Ball this year? Who will win the Golden Ball?
Harry Kane – England
Harry Kane has led England to the semifinals for the first time since 1990. The Tottenham Hotspur striker has been brilliant scoring six goals, which leads the tournament. Kane's play has been more than scoring, however. His leadership and hold-up play have been immeasurable. Thanks to Kane's ability to keep the ball and draw fouls, a tired England got through extra-time against Colombia before winning on penalties. He has shown this summer just why he is the best striker in the Premier League currently.
Eden Hazard – Belgium
Belgium's Eden Hazard has scored just two goals at the World Cup 2018, but his play has meant more than goals. He has added two assists as Belgium have scored 14 goals at the World Cup. Hazard's play against Brazil in the quarterfinal trumped Neymar's performance on all levels. Neymar is regularly seen as one of the three best players in the world. However, Hazard's ability to out maneuver defenders and draw fouls showed why he is better than Neymar on the big stage. Hazard will play a big part in the semifinal against France and could land the Golden Ball.
Kylian Mbappe – France
Kylian Mbappe has the chance to win both the Golden Ball and the Best Young Player award. Mbappe has tallied three goals for France who meet Belgium in the semifinals. The 19-year-old sensation is showing just why he is the most expensive teenager on the planet. Mbappe has outshone teammates Antoine Griezmann and Paul Pogba, which is not an easy task. If France win the tournament, Mbappe will collect individual silverware.
Luka Modric – Croatia
Croatia captain Luka Modric has once again shown why he is a key player for club and country. A four-time Champions League winner, the diminutive Modric has the chance to win the World Cup for the first time ever. Modric has two goals and an assist in five games for Croatia at the World Cup. He is the team's undisputed leader and makes the team tick on and off the pitch. Modric is key to Croatia's performances and qualification to the final could give him the Golden Ball in 2018.
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