World Cup 2018: 5 players who make the difference for Argentina

#4 Javier Mascherano

Mascherano's last-gasp tackle on Robben sent Argentina to the final in 2014

The Little Chief would be unarguably the heart of the Argentine squad. A true leader on the pitch, Mascherano's presence of mind could take La Albiceleste all the way to the title in Russia. His last-minute tackles, intelligent passing moves and leadership would drive the men forward. Javier Mascherano has time and again proved himself as a fundamental part of the senior squad. A veteran defensive midfielder, Mascherano also shares an undying chemistry with talismanic forward Leo Messi.

Javier Mascherano, along with Zanetti, is Argentina's most capped player, with 143 appearances to his name. In what is surely his last World Cup, El Jefecito would be eyeing to move a bit ahead of the 143 mark and create history for himself, and his country.

Although Masche played as a center-back for Barcelona, his natural position rests in the defensive midfield region. He was forced to play as a defender in the Camp Nou due to Sergio Busquets' presence. But now, away from the glamour of La Liga, Masche has had some practice in his natural role in the Chinese league. His passing would the key between the defence and attack and all people would be hoping for a lot from the veteran. A true captain without the armband, Masche has a lot of responsibilities to fulfill in Russia.