FIFA World Cup 2018: Players to watch out for in Group F

Current world champions Germany will be heavily touted to win Group F and few can argue otherwise. The second spot is up for grabs and the game between Mexico and Sweden might just decide this group. Son Heung-min getting on the scoring charts will only increase the competition for second place.

Here are a few names that could play a big role in deciding the outcome of the group.

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#1 Germany - Toni Kroos

The regista-supreme will be hoping for a second World Cup title

World Cup champions in 2014, Germany are spoilt for choice in every position.

Imagine trying to pick the best from a side that boasts the talents of Neuer, Özil, Müller, and Hummels. Naturally, though, we had to pick the outside favorite: Toni Kroos.

The German midfielder is one of the best midfielders plying their trade in Europe. His ability to dictate pay, move into space and take touches and occasionally score the odd belter is unparalleled. Castrol Performance Index, the statistical analyzer at the previous World Cup rated Kroos the best player of the competition with a rating of 9.79/10. He might not frequent the headlines, but Kroos will be vital if Germany is to retain the World Cup in Russia.

Notable Mention : Timo Werner

#2 Mexico - Hirving Lozano

Chucky will be terrorizing defenses in Russia

Mexico will be making its 16th appearance at a World Cup. El Tri has been a constant fixture at the tournament but has not made it past the round of 16 in the past six consecutive tournaments.

Lozano will be vital if Mexico are to change that trend. The Mexican winger has had an explosive season at PSV Eindhoven, which is made all the more special given that this is his debut season in Europe. Lozano has frightening pace and an unbridled style of playing football. He can essentially play from either wing and cut in and create a chance or crack a shot.

Much is expected from the young Mexican but expect 'Chucky', with his explosive pace and a penchant for scoring, to announce himself at the world's biggest footballing stage.

Notable Mention : Javier Hernández

#3 Sweden - Emil Forsberg

Sweden's new talisman will be looking to make his mark in Russia

Post Zlatan's retirement from international football, the onus was on Forsberg to come to the forefront and lead the Swedes and he has adapted to his new role perfectly.

Flourishing as the star player in the Swedish squad, Forsberg is a pacey winger with the rare ability to always find time on the ball, even in the tightest matches to find a key pass or deliver a cross.

Also in his repertoire is his ability to strike a dead ball, which makes him a serious threat from midfield. Great things are expected from Forsberg, and the play-making midfielder has to be on top of his game to help the Swedes progress from a tough group containing the likes of South Korea, Mexico and current world champions Germany.

Notable Mention : Martin Olsson

#4 Korea Republic - Son Heung-Min

Heung-Min will be doing his best to live up to the legacy of Park Ji-Sung

Son Heung-min is possibly the best Asian player playing the beautiful game at the moment.

The Spurs winger is having a good season and is starting regularly in a side and forming a fearsome attacking trio with Harry Kane and Dele Alli at Tottenham Hotspur.

Son Heung-min is considered to be Park Ji-Sung's natural heir and he has comfortably outscored Ji-Sung for the national squad, but is yet to have the same kind of impact for Korea Republic at major tournaments.

Son Heung-min is very good winger with pace to boot and goal scoring ability, but he needs to consistently deliver at the world's biggest stage to be comparable to Ji-Sung. Korea Republic will hope that Son Heung-min's relentless play and efficiency in front of goal will help them progress beyond a group containing Sweden, Mexico and Germany.

Notable Mention : Ki Sung-yueng