With Lionel Messi’s international career approaching its final chapter, his achievements offer an opportunity to revisit other legendary players whose influence helped their nations claim major honours.
Players who defined their countries’ greatest triumphs
Messi spent years carrying Argentina’s expectations and enduring setbacks with the national side. Those disappointments eventually gave way to success when he helped Argentina win the 2021 Copa América before guiding them to the 2022 World Cup crown.
Diego Maradona was the outstanding figure in Argentina’s 1986 World Cup campaign. His scoring, technical ability and authority on the field drove the team to the trophy and strengthened his reputation as one of football’s all-time greats.
Pelé was central to Brazil’s emergence as a global football power. The forward collected three World Cup winners’ medals and became one of the sport’s most celebrated and admired figures worldwide.
During France’s period of success, Zinedine Zidane stood among the team’s leading stars. He struck twice in the 1998 World Cup final, helping France secure the first World Cup in its history.
Cristiano Ronaldo served as Portugal’s leading international figure for much of his career. He played a major part in the nation’s Euro 2016 triumph and was also important in Portugal’s 2019 Nations League success.
Franz Beckenbauer combined authority with excellence in defence. Wearing the captain’s armband, he took West Germany to the 1974 World Cup title and earned widespread respect as one of his era’s finest players.
Iker Casillas was the captain during Spain’s most decorated spell. Under his leadership, Spain won Euro 2008, the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012.
Cafu was another crucial member of Brazil’s successful generation. He appeared in three consecutive World Cup finals and captained the team when Brazil lifted the 2002 trophy.
Dino Zoff achieved a remarkable feat by leading Italy to the 1982 World Cup title at 40 years of age. His composure and command of the team established him as one of the country’s greatest goalkeepers.
Andrés Iniesta played a vital role in Spain’s golden period. His decisive goal against the Netherlands in the 2010 World Cup final delivered Spain’s first-ever World Cup championship.
