WORLD CUP'S FINEST FACIAL HAIR

The 2018 World Cup is underway. And what a start it’s been — splendid goals, stunning upsets, penalties aplenty and lots of VAR.

But what we’re enjoying the most is the facial hair. There’s been plenty on show so far and some real standout efforts. Given that the tournament doesn’t end until July 15th there’s still time for players to grow themselves a beard or ‘stache that could see them added to this list (we’re looking at you Cristiano Ronaldo) but, for now, here’s the best of what those involved have to offer.

If the action hasn’t got you inspired, these surely will.

Mile Jedinak, Australia

From this image, the Aussie captain is declaring himself number 1 beard at the World Cup. We’ll let you be the judge of that. What he does have is one of the finest beards of the World Cup. Well looked after too — he must use that Mo Bro’s wax.

Mo Salah, Egypt

Mo has that big hair thing going on so it makes sense that he keeps his beard well trimmed. Suits him.

Adil Rami, France

Oh, Adil, might well you twirl that moustache. Nicely groomed and good use of wax, well played, Sir.

 

Alireza Jahanbakhsh, Iran

Alireza pulls off that dark hair/ginger beard vibe fantastically. He’s helped, of course, by the fact his beard is perfectly kempt. Excellent work on the neck line. 

Paulihno, Brazil

Okay, Paulinho… hand on heart, are you going to invest in some Mo Bro’s wax for your goatee?

Aron Gunnarsson, Iceland

A good captain always leads by example, which is what Aron Gunnarsson is doing at this World Cup. One of the finest beards in the modern game is looking better than ever in Russia.

Diego Costa, Spain

Diego Costa with no beard: World Cup 2014 — 0 goals; Euro 2016 — not picked. Diego Costa with beard: World Cup 2018 — 2 goals in the first game. Taking the tournament by storm. Coincidence? We think not.

Lionel Messi, Argentina

Another captain, another beard. Apparently this guy is quite good too.

Just an Iceland fan sporting a magnificent grey beast.

Jimmy Durmaz, Sweden

Jimmy Durmaz, ladies and gents. Possibly the coolest footballer on the planet.

Stanislav Cherchesov, Russia

Russia manager Cherchesov’s trademark ‘stache is known as the “moustache of hope” and Russia fans everywhere are being encouraged to grow one of their own in support of the team. We’re fully behind this campaign. The world will be a better place with more of these moustaches around.

David De Gea, Spain

The best goalkeeper in the world? Quite possibly. The best bearded goalkeeper in the world? We’ve found none better.

Gareth Southgate, England

The England manager was never one for a beard in his playing days. Fortunately, he’s seen the error of his ways and looks all the better for it.

Timo Werner, Germany

An understated and underrated chin strap sported by the German front man. Nicely done.

Ferjani Sassi, Tunisia

One word: Slick.

Alexi Lalas, USA

Ah, wrong World Cup, apparently. Still, WHAT. A. GOATEE!