World Cup 2018: Top 3 surprises from the tournament

#2 Yerry Mina

Yerry Mina

Yerry Mina has had many doubts over the past 18 months about his ability at centreback. The 6'5 Colombian joined Barcelona in January of 2018 and was expected to be the long-term replacement for club legend Gerard Pique.

Making his competitive debut in the Copa del Rey semi-final, as a substitute, Mina finally got his chance to prove himself as he was given five starts in La Liga once the title was already wrapped up for Barcelona. However, he produced what was to be seen as very unconvincing displays in the central defence for the Catalan club especially in a 5-4 defeat against Levante to end Barcelona's invincible run.

All of that seems to be years in the past now, though, as Mina has found excellent form for Colombia in this World Cup. Mina became the nation's leading goal-scorer in the competition on the back of three goals, including a 92nd minute equaliser against England, which eventually led to Colombia being knocked out through penalties.

Mina has definitely been a surprise package in the 2018 World Cup with his performances exceeding expectations and generating interest from clubs around the world.