Uruguay’s Forlan Wins the Coveted Golden Ball
Posted on July 12, 2010 - Filed Under Soccer | Leave a Comment
Uruguay’s most famous striker, Diego Forlan edged out Sneijder and Villa to win the coveted Golden Ball of 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. The Golden Ball award is given to the best player of World Cup. He was his team’s heartbeat and he surpassed the expectations in reaching the semi finals of this tournament. He scored 5 goals en route to Uruguay’s finish in the 4th place after being defeated by Germany by 3-2 in Saturday’s showdown.
Forlan used to play for Manchester United earlier but now the ace is playing for Atletico Madrid. He scored a goal against the rival team, Germany and was also highlighted in matches against the Dark Horses, Netherlands and the hosts, Ghana.
Forlan was up against 9 other contenders for the coveted Golden Ball. This was primarily voted by the international media present in South Africa. He garnered 23.4% of votes to finish much ahead of Spanish striker David Villa and Netherlands schemer Wesley Sneijder. All the three players scored 5 goals in the World Cup but they missed out on the Golden Boot which was given to Germany’s superstar, Thomas Muller. Muller amassed the most number of assists for his team.
The World Cup final match-winner, Spanish midfielder, Andres Iniesta was also up for the award. Also, his Barcelona and Spanish fellow teammate, Xavi was in the list of contenders for the Golden ball.
The other candidates for the Golden ball were Argentina star Lionel Messi, Ghana striker Asamoah Gyan, Germany duo Mesut Ozil and Bastian Schweinsteiger and Holland’s dark horse, Arjen Robben. On the other hand, Spanish captain Iker Casillas received the Golden Glove award as he was the best goalkeeper in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
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