Since 18 November, the world’s attention has turned to middle east nation Qatar where the biggest football tournament has been taking place.

Different national football teams have engaged in interesting, breathtaking action at the most expensive World Cup in history, much to the entertainment of fans. We are now down to two teams – Argentina and France – who will both slug it out for the coveted World Cup title on Sunday.

During the course of action at this year’s World Cup, we have also witnessed brilliant individual displays from both established and young players. In this piece, NRTC assesses, in no particular order, five breakout stars at the 2022 World Cup.

Azzedine Ounahi (Morocco)
Atlas Lions midfielder Azzedine Ounahi caught an unknown figure when the 2022 World Cup began but he has quick turned out to be one of the breakout players of the tournament.

Still 22, Ounahi was instrumental to Morocco’s historic semifinal birth. He helped his side eliminate both Spain (last 16) and Portugal (quarter final) en route becoming the first ever African nation to reach the last four of the World Cup.

His all-round, indefatigable displays in Qatar have not gone unnoticed. He clocked 14.7km against Spain, more than any other player. Also, no team-mate had more dribbles (three) or won more duels (seven) in the last eight encounter against Portugal.

Barcelona are reportedly monitoring the player who currently plays for Ligue 1 side Angers.

Enzo Fernández (Argentina)
The 21-year-old Benfica central midfielder has been a revelation at this year’s World Cup.

Fernández has not started a game for Albiceleste prior to the World Cup. However, he has been a brilliant performer for the Argentine team.

His fantastic curling effort in the second group game victory over Mexico was one that wowed fans. The goal sealed victory in a very vital encounter after Argentina were stunned by Saudi Arabia in their opening game.

In the last four victory over Croatia, Fernández made more tackles (four) than any other player on the pitch. He also made 62 passes, a joint-high for Argentina, alongside captain Lionel Messi.

Unsurprisingly, Fernández has a reported release clause of £103m. He has already caught the attention of Premier League big boys Liverpool...

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