The FIFA World Cup is upon us, and football fever has gripped the world. Over billions of people will be tuning in to watch their favorite team battle it out for the much-coveted trophy. The World Cup promises to be a breathtaking tournament where the best footballers will compete. Here is a look at the top five heroes of all time in the FIFA World Cup:
6. Zenidine Zidane – France
Zinedine Zidane is a legend of the game. He is known as one of the best footballers ever to play the game and made his name during the 1998 FIFA World Cup.
The French midfielder played for both club and country and was part of France’s 1998 World Cup-winning squad. He was named European Footballer of the Year thrice (1998, 2000, 2003).
5. Miroslav Klose – Germany
The best goal-scorers are the ones that you can’t stop. They’re the ones who are so good they make you want to throw your computer out the window and then get back on it and watch them play some more.
One of those players is Miroslav Klose, whose record-breaking World Cup goalscoring streak has made him one of the most celebrated players in German soccer history. Not only did he score 16 goals in 24 appearances for Germany, but he also holds the record for the most goals scored at World Cup tournaments (16), which he set during his four appearances from 2002 to 2014.
4. Ronaldo – Brazil
Ronaldo is a legend, and his legacy as one of the greatest soccer players will never be forgotten. His list of achievements is long and impressive.
He was named FIFA World Player of the Year five times (1996-1998, 2002), won the Champions League twice with Barcelona and Inter Milan, and won two La Liga titles with Real Madrid. He led Brazil to their first-ever World Cup title in 1994.
3. Johan Cruyff – Netherlands
Johan Cruyff was a Dutch footballer who played for Ajax and Barcelona. He is considered one of the best footballers in history, who revolutionized the game by introducing the concept of “total football,” which is now a common feature in modern football.
Cruyff helped the Netherlands win their first-ever European Championship title in 1988, where he was also named the player of the tournament. He led his team to the World Cup final in 1974 and 1978, but they lost both times to West Germany.
2. Pele
The most famous player in the history of soccer, Pele is a legend who led Brazil to three FIFA World Cup titles. He was known for his creativity, technical ability, and poise on the pitch. He scored goals in every way possible, whether with his head or his feet, and he often made incredible passes that led to more goals.
1. Diego Maradona – Argentina
Maradona’s skill set has been called “magical” by many people who have seen him play. He was known for his speed, dribbling ability, and ball control, allowing him to beat defenders easily and create scoring opportunities for himself and others.
His leadership qualities are legendary; even when he was suspended from playing in the 1994 World Cup due to doping charges, he rallied his teammates together from afar and helped Argentina win its second world title in team history.