OLDEST PLAYERS AT THE 2018 WORLD CUP

RAFAEL MARQUEZ

• Mexico • 39 years old

Mexico legend Rafael

Marquez was included in

Juan Carlos Osorio’s provisional list for the World

Cup, meaning that the

39-year-old defender is on course for his fifth tournament, a record only achieved by his countryman Antonio Carbajal and German legend Lothar Matthaus.

The former Barcelona great might have lost his speed but his reading of the game will be a valuable asset for the El Tri in Russia.

ESSAM EL HADARY

• Egypt • 44 years old

The goalkeeper is set to break the record as the oldest player to feature in a World Cup when the Pharaohs return to the World Cup after 28 years.

El-Hadary could eclipse the record set by Colombia goalkeeper Faryd Mondragon, who was 43 year old when he played at the last World Cup in Brazil. The highly decorated El Hadary had won 37 trophies in his career and the appearance in the World Cup will be another feather in his cap.

TIM CAHILL

• Australia • 38 years old

The inclusion of the old horse set the tongues wagging Down Under but

Cahill’s ability to produce on big occasions is undeniable.

The Australia’s all-time top scorer with 50 goals proved that he has plenty to offer as his brace against Syria in the World Cup playoff booked the Socceroos’ berth in Russia.

Cahill seems to have embraced his elder statesman role and his World Cup experience places him uniquely as the mentor in the team.

FELIPE BALOY

• Panama • 37 years old

Seasoned defender Felipe

Baloy will finally realise his dreams after guiding the unfancied Panama to the

Russia World Cup.

The centreback made his debut for Los Canaleros in 2000, and he has played football in Colombia, Brazil, Mexico and Guatemala.

Baloy’s experience will be vital for a team lacking in World Cup experience. Their task is set to be harder as they are drawn in Group G with European powerhouses Belgium and England, while Tunisia are also difficult opponents.

THIAGO SILVA

• Brazil • 33 years old

Without Silva as captain,

Brazil capitulated in the semi-final of the 2014

World Cup, losing by a record 1–7 scoreline to eventual champions Germany at home.

The Paris St Germain captain will be looking to guide his youthful side to make amends for their embarrassing exit in the previous World Cup.

Silva might have lost his pace but his phenomenal tactical intelligence and knowledge of the game is still world class. His composure in possession and ability to create chances for his teammates from the back is a major advantage.