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While goals are what makes the game of Football much exciting & entertaining for the fans, a proper sliding tackle or a last minute clearance on the goal makes a fan feel satisfied and makes them fall in love with the game. Often in Football Defenders remain underrated and do not catch the eye of the fans very easily. Their role is as important as a striker in the team. The defender puts their body on the line for their team and shows immense bravery and courage to play for the badge and help their team emerge victorious by trying to concede as few goals as possible during the game.
Let’s take a look at the best defenders of all time in football
1) Paolo Maldini
Paolo Maldini was considered as the King of Milan due to his art of defending and his awareness of the game. Renowned for his precise sliding tackles, interception of aerial passes, tactical intelligence, stamina & speed. He was flexible in playing Left back or Centre Back which gave his team an advantage. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders in football around the world.
2) Sergio Ramos
Sergio Ramos is widely known for his fierce leadership and bullet headers. Ramos displayed immense passion for the game and was never afraid of pitting his body on the line for the team. He also holds the record of most no of appearances in the Spanish National team and has won the Champions league 4 times with Real madrid. One of the core memories will be his 92:48 header against Atletico Madrid which won the Champions league for Madrid.
3) Rio Ferdinand
Rio Ferdinand is one of the most decorated English players of all time. He was known for his elegance, pace and astute reading of the game. He is a Manchester United club legend playing for them from the year 2002 to 2014. He formed one of the most solid defensive partnerships in football alongside Nemanja Vidic.
4) Virgil Van Dijk
Virgil van Dijk stands as one of the greatest defenders in modern football. Known for his commanding presence, composure, and leadership on the pitch, he has reached incredible heights with both Liverpool and the Dutch national team.Van Dijk thrives under pressure and when put into difficult situations, he delivers.
5) Roberto Carlos
Roberto Carlos is one of the best Brazilian defenders of all time. He is potentially that player on the list who provides an attacking threat which could make the opponents tremble. He was also considered as a free-kick specialist during his time. His curving shots have been measured to be hit at 169 km/hr, also known as one of the most attacking minded left-backs of all time.
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