Brazil-Argentina: All-time combined XI

Brazil and Argentina are the two most successful South American sides in World Football
Brazil and Argentina are the two most successful South American sides in World Football

Left-Back-Roberto Carlos (Brazil 1992-2006)

The first genuine superstar left back-Roberto Carlos
The first genuine superstar left back-Roberto Carlos

Roberto Carlos was possibly the first genuine superstar wingback in world football, making the fullback positions glamorous with his flamboyant playing style and cannon-like long distance shots and free-kicks.

Most famously remembered as part of the legendary 2002 FIFA World Cup winning Brazil squad, the Real Madrid legend made the left-back role for the Selecao his own, earning over 125 caps. His famous free-kick against France in a friendly in 1997 is still remembered as one of the great iconic goals in football history.

Honorable Mentions: Nilton Santos (Brazil 1949-1962), Alberto Tarantini (Argentina 1974-1982)


Right-Back-Cafu (Brazil 1990-2006)

Cafu with the 2002 FIFA World Cup title
Cafu with the 2002 FIFA World Cup title

Brazil's right side of defence was manned for almost two decades by the legendary Cafu, who still holds the record for all-time appearances for the Selecao with 141 caps in the Canary Yellow. The captain of the iconic 2002 FIFA World Cup-winning side, Cafe was instrumental in leading an unfancied side to the title, beating Germany in the finals.

He still holds the record of being the only player to have taken part in three world cup finals, having been part of the 1994 FIFA World Cup-winning squad and a losing finalist in the 1998 FIFA World Cup final won by France.

Notable Mentions: Javier Zanetti (1994-2011), Carlos Alberto (1964-1977)


Left Wing-Diego Maradona (Argentina 1977-1994)

Maradona with the 1986 FIFA World Cup title
Maradona with the 1986 FIFA World Cup title

Widely regarded as the greatest player to have ever played the beautiful game alongside Pele, Maradona is undoubtedly Argentina's greatest ever player. Maradona lead the Albiceleste to their second World Cup triumph in Mexico in 1986, lighting up the tournament with his electric displays.

He scored what came to be known as the 'Goal of the Century' against England in the tournament, weaving past almost the entire opposition in a magical run to score. In 2002, Maradona and Pele were jointly awarded the FIFA Player of the 20th Century award.

Notable Mentions: Zico (Brazil 1976-1986), Osvaldo Ardiles (Argentina 1975-1982)

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Edited by Sai Teja