Ultimate Brazil dream team: Pele and Ronaldo make the cut, Ronaldinho misses out
Brazil’s football history is a treasure trove of iconic names, stunning skill, and World Cup glory. In assembling the ultimate Brazil XI, we sift through generations of greatness to spotlight the very best—Pele and Ronaldo are in, but there's no room for Ronaldinho.
FW: Romario – lethal and legendary
Romario claims a well-earned spot in Brazil’s dream team with his clinical goal-scoring touch and World Cup pedigree. He netted five goals in Brazil’s 1994 World Cup triumph and took home the Golden Ball for his efforts, partnering brilliantly with Bebeto during that campaign.
FW: Ronaldo – the phenomenon
Ronaldo’s World Cup heroics are etched into football folklore. From his 2002 Golden Boot-winning performance to his dazzling goalscoring record, he remains one of Brazil’s most feared forwards despite injuries limiting his potential.
FW: Pele – the king of football
Pele’s unmatched legacy includes three World Cup wins and 77 goals in 92 international appearances. A complete forward with vision, flair, and a killer instinct, he set the gold standard for Brazilian football.
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LM: Rivaldo – skill and substance
Rivaldo was a key architect in Brazil’s 2002 World Cup win, forming a devastating trio with Ronaldo and Ronaldinho. His technical brilliance and clutch goals give him the edge over Ronaldinho in this all-time XI.
RM: Garrincha – the magician on the wing
Garrincha’s mesmerizing dribbles and creative genius led Brazil to back-to-back World Cup victories in 1958 and 1962. When Pele was injured in '62, Garrincha stepped up and won the Golden Ball and Golden Boot.
CM: Dunga – the warrior leader
A hard-nosed midfielder with immense leadership, Dunga captained Brazil to the 1994 World Cup title. Known for his grit and composure, he also featured in a second final in 1998 and later managed the national team.
LB: Roberto Carlos – the rocket footed icon
Few left-backs matched Roberto Carlos in attacking prowess and audacious goals. With 125 caps and a World Cup win in 2002, he remains one of Brazil’s most influential defenders.
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CB: Mauro Ramos – calm and commanding
Mauro Ramos captained Brazil to World Cup victory in 1962 after years of serving the team. His aerial strength and smart positioning earned him a spot among Brazil’s best centre-backs.
CB: Hilderaldo Bellini – the original trophy lifter
Bellini was Brazil’s first World Cup-winning captain, lifting the trophy in 1958. He played a pivotal role again in 1962 and became a symbol of victory with his iconic trophy lift.
RB: Cafu – the ultimate engine
Cafu’s stamina and attacking drive made him a legend. He is the only player to appear in three straight World Cup finals, winning two and captaining Brazil in their 2002 triumph.
GK: Claudio Taffarel – the safe hands of ’94
Taffarel played over 100 times for Brazil, anchoring the team’s defense in the 1994 World Cup win. His consistency and big-game temperament earned him a place in Brazilian goalkeeping history.
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