How compelling stories and drama have enriched Fifa World Cup 2018

Debutant Panama, long-suffering Peru, defending champion Germany's feet of clay have all had the element of surprise - something that drives the currency of the World Cup

There is an air of suspicion that precedes the World Cup. Coming after a season of domestic football, and the headiness of the Champions League, there is much to be wary about. With national teams dedicating relatively little time for preparation and tactics, one can never be too sure whether the football will be as good as we see all-year around.

However, there is a chink in that narrative. It overlooks the possibility of the compelling stories that the World Cup has to offer. The ongoing tournament in Russia has once again shown that it can leave us questioning much