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No. 35 Alexis Sanchez, Barcelona/Chile
Why he's ranked: Dazzlingly quick-footed and a potent scorer from wide positions, Sanchez tends to specialise in the spectacular goals. His 19 goals in Barcelona's disappointing La Liga season in Spain confirm his superb pre-World Cup form and he will be expected to deliver match-winning displays for Chile in Brazil.
Key stat: Second-most goals scored for Barcelona in league this year behind only Lionel Messi and third-most assists for the team. This was his personal best season accounting for goals scored in league play.
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What the experts say: "When he joined a star-filled Barcelona, the Chilean forward made his way into the starting team thanks to his speed, stamina and goals. The same formula could pay dividends again in Brazil 2014 with coach Jorge Sampaoli ready to give battle [to] powerhouses Spain and Netherlands with his attacking tactics." - Nicolas Baier, ESPN Argentina
Other articles:
- ESPN FC Blogs: Chile
- The countdown: Our Top 50 players of the World Cup
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