10 Biggest Stars Of The 2014 FIFA World Cup (So Far)

6. Karim Benzema

Ah, the French. Ever since that victory in their own backyard in 1998, it has largely been a tale of woe for "Les Bleus" at the World Cup. Sure, that heartbreaking final loss to Italy in 2006 was a great effort, but away from Europe, France traditionally struggle in the greatest tournament known to man. They didn't even have to qualify for the tournament in 2002, owing to the fact they were defending champions. However, in Japan and South Korea they toiled, and suffered an embarrassing exit in the group stages. They picked up a measly point, drawing with Uruguay, as well as losses to Denmark and Senegal (the latter of which was the opening game of the tournament). And in South Africa four years ago, things got even worse. In-fighting and coaching squabbles led to a disastrous World Cup, again crashing out in the group stage amongst a relatively timid group (South Africa, Uruguay and Mexico). However, the 2014 World Cup has started pretty well for the French - superbly well, in fact. A 3-0 win over Honduras doesn't exactly set the world alight in terms of their chances, but it sure is an improvement on previous tournaments away from Europe. And spearheaded by Karim Benzema, the French have every chance of progressing quite deep in the tournament. Benzema is a natural No. 9, the type of player that is hard to find at the top level these days. His two goals during that win justify his importance to the French, and with a midfield containing the likes of Franck Ribery, Yohan Cabaye and Mathieu Valbuena behind him, you have to assume France can be big shakers in Brazil this year.