With the 2026 World Cup approaching, the “GiveMeSport” website reviewed a list of the most prominent stars who did not succeed in winning the World Cup, despite their large mark on the history of the game.
Brazilian Zico came in 13th place, and he is one of the greatest playmakers, having scored 48 goals in 71 international matches, and his most notable achievement was reaching the quarter-finals of the 1986 World Cup.
Italian Roberto Baggio finished in 12th place, after leading his country to the 1994 final, before the missed penalty kick against Brazil remained one of the most famous moments of his career.
As for George Best, the Manchester United legend, he came in 11th place, even though he did not participate in the World Cup due to Northern Ireland’s failure to qualify during his period of brilliance.
In tenth place was Croatian Luka Modric, who led his country to the 2018 final before losing to France, and hopes for a perfect ending during the 2026 World Cup.
The list also included Soviet goalkeeper Lev Yashin, Dutchman Marco van Basten, Portuguese Eusebio, Italian Paolo Maldini, Frenchman Michel Platini, and Hungarian Ferenc Puskas.
Alfredo Di Stefano also came in third place, even though he never participated in the World Cup, after representing Argentina, Colombia and Spain during his career.
Dutchman Johan Cruyff came second, after leading his country to the 1974 World Cup final before losing to West Germany, despite his great influence on the history and philosophy of football.
Cristiano Ronaldo topped the list, as one of the greatest players who have not won the World Cup yet. The Portuguese star played in five editions of the tournament, and his best achievement was fourth place in the 2006 World Cup.
Ronaldo is preparing to compete in the World Cup for the sixth time in his career during the 2026 edition, hoping to achieve the only title that is still missing from his long record of achievements. (toss)
