The five best bears of the 2014 World Cup.
Everybody loves a good beard, and this year’s tournament has given Pogonophiles the world over something to admire. So, with that in mind we have compiled the five best for you to feat your eyes over.
5. Anthony Vanden Borre – Belgium
Vanden Borre has completely flipped the script here (that’s when you shave your head but grow a full, thick beard) which has helped him switch between warm and welcoming to mean and menacing in a matter of seconds. Formerly of Portsmouth, he fell away from the spotlight somewhat over the years, but has managed to resurrect himself somewhat lately.
4. Charles Itandje – Cameroon
The Cameroonian has gone for the beard and Mohican look in a bid to make him appear more terrifying when rushing out to meet a striker in a one on one situation. Once on the books at Liverpool, he never played for the club and was ushered out when caught laughing during a minutes silence for the victims of the Hillsbrough disaster.
3. Raul Meireles – Portugal
Unlike Itandje, Meireles’ effort is a lot more intimidating, which is only offset by a ton of tattoos. Also like Itandje, the midfielder was once of Liverpool, as well as Chelsea, and is currently keeping Fenerbahce’s midfield ticking over when not featuring for his country.
2. Panagiotis Kone – Greece
To be honest, the Greek side is a who’s who of the best beard ever competition, and they would be counted as world class if it were. Sadly, it isn’t, but Kone is top of the pile with this standout effort.
1. Andrea Pirlo – Italy
Was there ever going to be another winner? Pirlo’s beard is so cool it could have peeled itself of his face, pulled on an Italy shirt and beaten England all by itself playing in every position. The veteran has enjoyed an Indian summer to his career that started the moment he threw his razor in the bin. Coincidence?