In our third feature we take a look at the ten best defenders of all time. There are quite a few unusual names in this list but all played their part in history of the game.
We even see an ex- PSL coach crack the nod in this list!
Daniel Passarella - Years active: 1971-89
National team: Argentina
Daniel Passarella was a reliable defensive force but what makes him unique among history's greatest defenders is his scoring ability. He was a dangerous man off set pieces and was remarkable for his ability to score from corners with a header, even if he stands at only 5'8".
Passarella sealed his place in the hall of greatness during the 1978 World Cup when he captained Argentina to the championship crown. He replicated this feat by winning the 1986 World Cup for Argentina.
Giacinto Facchetti - Years active: 1960-78
Club: Internazionale Milano
Giacinto Fachetti began playing as a forward but Helenio Herrera, the legendary coach who perfected catenaccio football, saw that Fachetti best fitted as a defender. He played his new role exceptionally well because of the technique he got by playing as a forward.
Facchetti was an integral part of the "Grande Inter," the finest squad Internazionale Milano had. With Inter, he won four Italian Serie A championships, two European Cups (1964,1965), and two Intercontinental Cups (1964,1965). He also helped Italy win the 1968 European Football Championship and in its runner-up campaign in the 1970 World Cup.
Rudi Krol - Years active: 1968-86
National team: Netherlands
Ruud Krol is an extremely versatile player, which made him a perfect proponent of the Dutch total soccer system. He is highly regarded for his speed, which he retained over his long playing career.
When not defending, Krol would lead his team's attack or make long passes which always found their way to the intended player. His passing skills greatly enhanced Johan Cruyff's offense. Krol is a member of the unlucky Netherlands football team which made it to the 1974 and 1978 World Cup finals but never won the championship.
Djalma Santos - Years active: 1948-70
National team: Brazil
Djalma Santos was the starting defender of the Brazilian powerhouse of 1950s and 1960s. Although he mostly started as right-back, Santos can switch to different soccer positions and was often seen playing up the field.
Santos is one of only two players who became a member of the FIFA World Cup All Star team on three occasions (1954, 1958, 1962). His counterpart is no less than the German legend Franz Beckenbauer. Until today, he is widely considered as the best wing back ever to play the game.
Carlos Alberto Torres - Years active: 1963-1982
National team: Brazil
While Pele led the Brazilian attack during its glory days, Carlos Alberto was the one who manned its back. Alberto became famous at a young age because of his excellent ability to read opponents, a skill he complemented with his flawless tackling.
He was also a solid playmaker, a feature he was able to do because of his excellent passing and dribbling skills. Alberto played his greatest game in the 1970 World Cup final, with a goal against Italy.
Be sure to look out for tomorrow list of the next five defenders! Who do you think will make the next list?
