Chapter 1
The pioneers and tactical architects
Chapter 2
The artists of midfield magic
Chapter 3
The ultimate modern gladiators
Chapter 4
The unbreakable defensive walls
Chapter 5
Global icons and barrier-breakers
Ch 4 · The unbreakable defensive walls
sparta Nicknamed Der Kaiser, this defender won two Ballon d'Or awards and led Bayern Munich to three consecutive European Cups from 1974 to 1976.
Quiz
Franz Beckenbauer is famous for pioneering which tactical position on the football pitch?
Quiz
How many UEFA Champions League (or European Cup) titles did Paolo Maldini win during his career?
Quiz
For which single professional club did Paolo Maldini play his entire 25-year career?
Fun Fact
Yashin's secret: Lev Yashin claimed his secret to stopping penalties was having a smoke to calm his nerves, followed by a quick drink of strong liquor.
BETA
sparta Swipe to block incoming shots to learn how Lev Yashin revolutionized the goalkeeper position.
Quiz
Lev Yashin remains the only player in which position to ever win the prestigious Ballon d'Or?
Quiz
What was Lev Yashin's famous nickname, inspired by his all-black attire and incredible reach?
Glossary
defender (noun)
An outfield player whose primary role is to prevent the opposing team from scoring goals. Italian legend Paolo Maldini excelled in this position, winning five European Cups with AC Milan.
An outfield player whose primary role is to prevent the opposing team from scoring goals. Italian legend Paolo Maldini excelled in this position, winning five European Cups with AC Milan.
Quiz
Franco Baresi was famous for coordinating which tactical defensive maneuver with his backline?
Quiz
Franco Baresi spent his entire 20-year professional club career playing for which team?
sparta The Juventus and Italy goalkeeper went 1,142 minutes without conceding a goal and captained his country to World Cup victory in 1982.