The FIFA World Cup in Qatar gets underway this month, with many of the top nations harbouring hopes of lifting the trophy in December. Argentina's hopes are underpinned by Lionel Messi, while Brazil are reliant on Neymar Jr to build a World Cup legacy likened to stars of the past in order to guide his country to success.

In terms of South America's main European opposition, France is undergoing an injury crisis with the likes of Raphael Varane, Paul Pogba and N'Golo Kante currently injured, who were all key members of the 2018 World Cup-winning squad. Les Blues will perhaps have to rely on Karim Benzema, although that would put them in fairly safe hands as the Real Madrid star is the current Ballon d'Or holder.

For many, the cup is destined to finally return to South America this year, with many of the European nations not looking as strong at present. We will look at the leading candidate to provide a strong supporting cast to the likes of Messi and Neymar as they seek to become world champions in Qatar. Brazil are currently the outright favourite to win the tournament, but you should never count out Argentina.

Argentina: (Rodrigo de Paul)