Before El Fenomeno clocked 23, he had reached a record goal of 200 for both club and country. The Brazilian forward created a reputation for himself as a result of his impeccable style of dribbling, fantastic speed, and excellent finish. (Photo credit: SI.com / Vault)Įl Fenomeno, as Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima is nicknamed, ruled the world of football at the peak of his career. He won the Ballon d’Or three times, the 1974 FIFA World Cup Golden Ball, and led his side to second place in the 1974 FIFA World Cup. The Dutchman invented the Cruyff turn, which players in modern football widely use. However, Johan Cruyff defeated the odds to achieve both. Johan Cruyff, Netherlands Johan Cruyff (Photo credit: .uk)Ĭreating a name in football is a daunting task, but creating an exceptional style unique to yourself, is, even more, a rigorous challenge. He also won the Ballon d’Or on three occasions and the World Soccer Player of the Year twice. Platini won the 1984 UEFA European Championship and emerged third place in the 1986 FIFA World Cup. The French footballer had a successful career, which lasted over two decades. No doubt, in terms of players who have left an indelible print in world football in the 20th century, Platini would emerge as one of the most competent candidates for the title of the greatest players. Michel Platini, France Michel Platini in 1982. Baggio is notably among the greatest soccer players of all-time. He also won Italy’s Player of the Century in 2000. Baggio won the World Soccer Player of the Year award and the Ballon d’Or in 1993. He was a terrific soccer star who mastered the core art of curling freekicks and netting set pieces. Baggio throughout his 30 years career mesmerized fans with his unique dribblings that it was said that angels sang in his legs. One of Italy’s greatest footballers, Roberto Baggio, was an exceptional footballer who captivated fans. Roberto Baggio, Italy Roberto Baggio in 1990. Stefano ranks 10th in our greatest of all-time soccer players. His contemporaries also recognized his incredible wits, as seen in the words of ex-UEFA president and french footballer Michel Platini, who hailed Stefano as the great among the greats. He won the Ballon d’Or in 19, the Spanish Player (Athlete) of the Year on four occasions, and the South American Championship with the Argentinian national team in 1947. Within this period, the Argentine won several individual awards and championships. Stefano “Saeta Rubia” Di Stefano had a very successful soccer career that lasted more than two decades. Alfredo Di Stéfano, Argentina Alfredo Di Stéfano in 1947. The Greatest Soccer Players of All-Time (G.O.A.T.) 10. The Greatest Soccer Players of All-Time (G.O.A.T.).