Ranking the 5 greatest national team players of all time
While clubs have taken centre stage in recent years, it is worth noting that most of the history-defining moments of the sport have been produced at international tournaments by players who will remain in our memories forever.
The FIFA World Cup remains football's most prestigious competition. It is every player's dream to represent his nation in the iconic tournament. The Copa America, Euros and AFCON are also known to produce incredible spectacles. For those who have won these tournaments, no feeling in the world compares to what they felt while hoisting the trophy.
International football has been one of the most important parameters with which greatness will be judged in the sport and will continue to do so. That is why the most iconic footballers in history always tend to put forth their best in their national team jerseys.
Despite many legendary players impressing for their countries over the years, only a handful can be considered among the greatest. On that note, here's a look at the top five:
#5 Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Lionel Messi etched his name into the history books when he finally led Argentina to the Copa America 2021 title this summer.
The playmaker was in superb form, leading his team from the front. He finished as the top goalscorer (four goals), top assist provider (five assists) and was named the best player of the tournament.
Messi's record with Argentina speaks for itself. The attacker has an impressive tally of 76 goals for the Albiceleste, and is their all-time top scorer.
His honours with the national team comprise a FIFA World Cup Golden Ball, two Copa America Golden Balls, one Copa America Golden Shoe, among others. It's worth adding that Lionel Messi has the most Ballon d'Or awards (6) by any player in history.
#4 Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
Cristiano Ronaldo is arguably the greatest goalscorer in the history of international football. He currently has the most goals scored for a men's national team in history (109), a record he shares with Iran's Ali Daei.
Ronaldo's exploits with Portugal are truly impressive. He led his nation to Euro 2016 glory and followed that up with the UEFA Nations League triumph in 2019. The winger was the joint top scorer at Euro 2020 and was the Golden Boot winner. He has five Ballon d'Or awards in his cabinet.