With both the finalists decided, we will soon have the name of the World Cup winner. With players like France’s Antoine Griezmann and Croatia’s Luka Modric playing the finals, the race for FIFA Golden Ball is already on.

The Golden Ball is awarded to the best player of the tournament and is one of the three individual awards given to the players along with the Golden Boot and the Golden Glove.

ALSO READ: The controversial genius: Tracing Antonio Conte’s legacy at Chelsea

Lionel Messi won the award at the last World Cup and here is a list of five players who can bag it this year.

Luka Modric, Croatia   

Luka Modric has been sensational at this World Cup as he has led Croatia from the front, helping them reach the World Cup final for the first time ever.

He has been at the heart of Croatia’s midfield, scoring two goals and assisting one. More than the numbers, the way he controls the game is the key to Croatia reaching this far. If Croatia wins the World Cup, he will definitely win the golden ball.

Antoine Griezmann, France 

France has reached the finals of the World Cup yet again and Griezmann is one of the main reasons for that. He has not scored as many goals, still, he has been the focal point of France’s attack.

He has scored three goals and assisted two. The young Kylian Mbappe has taken away some of his limelight, but he is still a prime contender to win the Golden Ball.

Eden Hazard, Belgium

Eden Hazard led this Belgium side from the front and took them to the semi-finals. They ultimately lost 1-0 to France Hazard’s performance did not go unnoticed.

He scored two goals and assisted two more as France knocked Brazil out of the World Cup. He was praised by everyone for his excellent dribbling skills and quick counter-attacks. Even though Belgium was out in the semis, he still remains a contender for the Golden Ball.

N’Golo Kante, France 

N’Golo Kante remains one of the most important players for finalists France. He may go unnoticed throughout the match but when you look at his stats, you will realise he is always up there with the best.

His partnership with Paul Pogba in the midfield was one of the best in the tournament and together they both bossed the tournament. He has won the PFA Premier league player of the year and now his eyes will be all set on the World Cup Golden Ball.

Ivan Rakitic, Croatia 

While Luka Modric grabbed all the headlines, Rakitic kept sacrificing himself for the team, doing the dirty job in the midfield.

Rakitic has formed a formidable midfield partnership with Modric and has been equally important for his team. He scored the winning penalty twice for Croatia and if he is able to do it again on Sunday, he will definitely be a contender to win the Golden Ball.