DHAKA: With the group stages of the 2014 World Cup concluded, goal.com picks out the outstanding performers so far.

1. Group A: Neymar 

 

The weight of expectation on Neymar's young shoulders has been immense during this World Cup. As the host nation, Brazil have pinned their hopes on their favourite son and he has admirably risen to the occasion in style.

2. Group B: Arjen Robben

 

Louis Van Gaal has boldly led a young Netherlands side into the 2014 World Cup. However, with an attacking trio of Robin Van Persie, Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder, he's ensured that they are equipped with composure and experience in an area where they can do the most damage.

3. Group C: James Rodriguez

 

Radamel Falcao's injury which ruled him out of the World Cup was meant to be a huge blow to Colombian aspirations, but it also allowed James Rodriguez to step into the vacant spotlight and flourish on world football's biggest stage. 

4. Group D: Keylor Navas

 

Costa Rica were drawn in the 'Group of Death' alongside England, Uruguay and Italy and were clear favourites to be eliminated. Instead, they beat the odds to top the group and owe a large part of that to their man between the sticks, Keylor Navas.

5. Group E: Karim Benzema

 

Prior to the World Cup, there were several calls for Olivier Giroud to be France's leading striker sighting his performances for Arsenal and Karim Benzema's wastefulness in front of goal for Real Madrid. However, the latter has silenced his critics with a couple of sensational performances to help his side emerge as group winners.

6. Group F: Lionel Messi

 

Those who argue that Lionel Messi is the best player of all time have always faced the argument that he has never won a World Cup. However, if the Argentine continues to play like he has in the group stages of this tournament, that argument may soon be outdated.

7. Group G: Thomas Muller

 

Goals win games and when it comes to World Cup matches in particular, Thomas Muller has more than just a few. Miroslav Klose might hold the record for most World Cup goals with 15 along with Ronaldo but he will already be looking over his shoulder as his German teammate already has 9 in 9 games at the age of 24.

8. Group H: Islam Slimani

 

Algeria were nailed on favourites not only to be eliminated in the group stages but also to finish bottom. However, they made it through to the next round as Islam Slimani led their attack with 2 goals and an assist.

BDST: 2130 HRS, June 28, 2014