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Latest FIFA Rankings announced: Argentina remains on top, India climbs up to 125th

According to the latest FIFA rankings published on 24 October 2024, Argentina continues to top the list. India climbs up to 125th from their previous 126th position.

Oct 26, 2024, 6:54 AM2 min read

(Image Courtesy | IndiaToday)

FIFA published the latest international rankings on 24 October 2024 after the international break in October 2024. The 2022 World Champions Argentina remains on top of the list. The Indian National Football team climbed up to 125th from their 126th position in the previous rankings published on 19 September 2024. 

FIFA Rankings: Top 10 (24 October 2024)

The World Champions Argentina continues to be in the 1st position even though they were handed over a -5.52 points deduction. Argentina ended the game against Venezuela in a 1-1 draw and had a majestic 6-0 win over Bolivia during this international break. 

Latest FIFA Rankings announced: Argentina remains on top, India climbs up to 125th-sportzpoint.com
Argentina thrashed Bolivia by 6-0. (Image Courtesy | Eurosport)

Among the top 10, Brazil received the most points in this latest rankings as they received +12.35 points in total but they remain in the 5th position. Brazil had an away win against Chile by 2-1 and thrashed Peru by 4-0 on home soil. 

Latest FIFA Rankings announced: Argentina remains on top, India climbs up to 125th-sportzpoint.com
Brazil Crushed Peru by 4-0. (Image Courtesy | The Rio Times)

Colombia received the most points deduction in the top 10 teams and they have dropped to 10th after a -14.35 points deduction. However, Colombia lost 0-1 against Bolivia in an away match but had a 4-0 victory at home against Chile

Top 10

Latest FIFA Rankings announced: Argentina remains on top, India climbs up to 125th-sportzpoint.com
(Source | FIFA website)

Indian National Football Team 

Latest FIFA Rankings announced: Argentina remains on top, India climbs up to 125th-sportzpoint.com

India faced a drop in the rankings published on 19 September 2024 as they slipped to 126th position from their previous 124th. However, India has now climbed up to the 125th position with +0.26 points received.

India was set to participate in a series of tri-nation friendlies against Vietnam and Lebanon during the international break in October 2024 but Lebanon withdrew due to political unrest in their country. India faced Vietnam on 12 October 2024 and the match ended in a 1-1 draw

The Indian team is yet to win a game under new manager Manolo Marquez and their next outing is set to be against Malaysia in a friendly on 19 November 2024.

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The greatest football XI as per Ronaldo Nazario: Check out the team

Explore the greatest football XI of all time, chosen by legendary striker Ronaldo Nazário. Discover his ultimate dream team, featuring football icons and unforgettable talent on the pitch.

Mar 7, 2025, 5:58 PM5 min read

The greatest football XI as per Ronaldo Nazario-sportzpoint.com

Former Brazilian striker Ronaldo Nazario, 'the phenomenon' named some of his colleagues, footballing legends and icons among his list of the 11 best players ever. Former Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Juventus stars are on the list.

In this special article, we explore the greatest football XI as per Ronaldo Nazario.

The greatest football XI as per Ronaldo:

  1. Pele
  2. Lionel Messi
  3. Diego Maradona
  4. Zico
  5. Romario
  6. Cristiano Ronaldo
  7. Marco Van Basten
  8. Zinedine Zidane
  9. Luis Figo
  10. Rivaldo 
  11. Ronaldinho

1. Pele

The greatest football XI as per Ronaldo Nazario-sportzpoint.com
(Image Credit: GOAL.com)

Ronaldo Nazario grew up in Brazil in the 80s, it is not a surprise that he picked Pele. While Ronaldo Nazario was too young to watch Pele play live, his legacy is still to this day within the football world. For many Brazilians, Pele will always be the Greatest of all time.

2. Lionel Messi

The greatest football XI as per Ronaldo Nazario-sportzpoint.com
Image Credit: GOAL.com

Ronaldo has often spoken highly of the Argentine forward, and it is not a surprise that he named Lionel Messi as one of the best players of all time.

Ronaldo Nazario said the following during an interview in 2020:

Messi is out of this world. He’s great. I like him much more than any other player. Everything he does is spectacular.

3. Diego Maradona

The greatest football XI as per Ronaldo Nazario-sportzpoint.com
Image Credit: The Boston Globe

Ronaldo was born in 1976; he would have seen Diego Maradona in action during his development years and it is no surprise that the Argentine genius made such an impression on him. In reverse, Diego Maradona was always very complimentary of Ronaldo.

In 2018, Maradona said:

“If it were not for the injuries, Ronaldo would have been the best of all time.”

4. Zico

The greatest football XI as per Ronaldo Nazario-sportzpoint.com
Image Credit: The Football Times

Zico spent the majority of his career playing in his native country for Flamengo. He enjoyed a brief spell in Europe with Udinese but only spent two years playing in Italy before he returned to Brazil.

The Former Brazilian midfielder also earned 71 caps for Brazil and scored 48 goals on the international stage. Despite never winning the World Cup, he is still considered one of the greatest players in the country’s history.

5. Romario

The greatest football XI as per Ronaldo Nazario-sportzpoint.com
Image Credit: Planet Football

Ronaldo played a total of 19 games alongside Romario for Brazil and the pair combined for 12 goals during their time together. 

Ronaldo told Bobo TV during an interview in 2022.

In 1997, I was an important player already. I had already won the Ballon d’Or. 

During the training retreat for the Copa America, Romario suddenly told me: ‘Get ready, we go out tonight, don’t worry.’

He had prepared a ladder to climb over the hotel’s wall and there was a taxi waiting for us on the other side.

We returned at five am and I was exhausted the following day in training. I understood that Romario did it on purpose to tire me out and take my spot in the starting XI.

6. Cristiano Ronaldo

The greatest football XI as per Ronaldo Nazario-sportzpoint.com
Image Credit: Managing Madrid

While Ronaldo Nazario neglected Cristiano Ronaldo from his three greatest players of all time, he still names the Portuguese forward in his best XI.

Ronaldo Nazario told ESPN: 

Cristiano has an incredible career; he has scored in every way possible and successfully adapted to different positions. He is undoubtedly one of the best, but not the greatest.

7. Marco Van Basten:

The greatest football XI as per Ronaldo Nazario-sportzpoint.com
Image Credit: Soccer News

There can be no denying that the three-time Ballon d’Or winner ranks among the greatest players of all time. At club level, the Dutchman scored a whopping 283 goals in just 379 appearances for Ajax and AC Milan. Like Ronaldo, Van Basten had to retire his career short because of injuries.

8. Zinedine Zidane

The greatest football XI as per Ronaldo Nazario-sportzpoint.com
Image Credit: Sportskeeda

During their time together at Real Madrid, Ronaldo played 139 games alongside Zinedine Zidane and the pair combined for 31 goals during that time. Considered by many to be the greatest midfielder of all time, it is no surprise that the Frenchman cuts into Ronaldo’s elite list.

9. Luis Figo

The greatest football XI as per Ronaldo Nazario-sportzpoint.com
Image Credit: Barca Universal

Ronaldo shared a close bond with Luis Figo during his playing days as the pair played alongside each other at Barcelona and Real Madrid. In fact, throughout Ronaldo Nazario's career, only Iker Casillas and Roberto Carlos played more games with him than Figo played.

The former Portuguese winger won 22 trophies throughout his career and undoubtedly ranks as one of the best players of his generation.

10. Rivaldo

The greatest football XI as per Ronaldo Nazario-sportzpoint.com
Image Credit: GOAL.com

Rivaldo was also recognized by Nazario as one of the best players of all time. Former Brazilian international won the Ballon d'Or in 1999. While they never played together at club level, they did make 46 appearances alongside each other when playing for the national team.

11. Ronaldinho

The greatest football XI as per Ronaldo Nazario-sportzpoint.com
Image Credit: X

The last name that Ronaldo gave when naming the best players of all time was Ronaldinho. A fellow Ballon d’Or and World Cup winner, this list would feel incomplete without the legendary attacking midfielder. The pair made 39 appearances together for Brazil and won the World Cup and Copa America together.

Next Article

FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers: Brazil's squad announced, Neymar and Oscar named in the squad

Brazil's FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers squad has been announced, and Neymar and Oscar have been called for the qualifiers. This article provides the full squad details.

Mar 2, 2025, 1:39 PM2 min read

Neymar and Oscar named in Brazil's squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.
(Image Credit | The Independent)

The Brazilian Football Federation (CBF) has announced a preliminary list of 52 players called up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifying matches against Colombia on March 21 and Argentina on March 26. 

This list includes former Barcelona forward Neymar Jr. and former Chelsea forward Oscar, both of whom are returning to the national team after a long time.

Next week, Brazil national team's head coach Dorival Junior will announce the final squad of 23 players.

Full Players List:

Goalkeepers:

  •  Alisson (Liverpool, England),
  • Bento (Al-Nassr, Saudi Arabia),
  • Ederson (Manchester City, England),
  • Hugo Souza (Corinthians),
  • Lucas Perry (Lyon, France),
  •  Weverton (Palmeiras).

Defenders:

  •  Alessandro (Lille, France),
  • Beraldo (Paris Saint-Germain, France),
  • Danilo (Flamengo), Fabricio Bruno (Cruzeiro),
  • Gabriel Magalhães (Arsenal, England),
  • Leo Ortiz (Flamengo),
  • Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain, France),
  • Murillo (Nottingham Forest, England).

Full-backs: 

  • Abner (Lyon, France),
  • Alex Sandro (Flamengo),
  • Alex Telles (Botafogo),
  • Dodo (Fiorentina, Italy),
  •  Douglas Santos (Zenit, Russia),
  • Guilherme Arana (Atletico Mineiro),
  • Wanderson (Monaco, France),
  • Wesley (Flamengo).

Midfielders: 

  • Alisson (São Paulo),
  • Andre (Wolverhampton, England),
  • Andreas Pereira (Fulham, England),
  • Andrey Santos (Strasbourg, France),
  • Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle, England),
  • Ederson (Atalanta, Italy),
  • Gerson (Flamengo),
  • João Gomes (Wolverhampton, England),
  • Joelinton (Newcastle, England),
  • Lucas Moura (São Paulo),
  • Lucas Paquetá (West Ham, England),
  • Matheus Cunha (Wolverhampton, England),
  • Neymar (Santos),
  • Oscar (São Paulo).

Forwards:

  •  Antony (Real Betis, Spain),
  • Bruno Henrique (Flamengo),
  • Endrick (Real Madrid, Spain),
  • Estevão (Palmeiras),
  • Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal, England),
  •  Galeno (Al-Ahli, Saudi Arabia),
  • Igor Jesus (Botafogo),
  •  Igor Paixão (Feyenoord, Netherlands),
  • João Pedro (Brighton, England),
  • Luis Enrique (Zenit, Russia),
  • Raphinha (Barcelona, Spain),
  • Rodrygo (Real Madrid, Spain),
  • Samuel Lino (Atletico Madrid, Spain),
  • Savinho (Manchester City, England),
  • Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid, Spain), 
  • Yuri Alberto (Corinthians)

 

Next Article

Mohun Bagan SG vs Odisha FC Indian Super League 2024-25 Highlights: Mohun Bagan win the shield for the second time in a row after 1-0 win over Odisha

Catch the highlights of the Mohun Bagan SG vs Odisha FC match in the Indian Super League 2024-25 season at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (VYBK) in Saltlake, Kolkata, Mohun Bagan successfully defended league shield by a powerful strike from Dimi Petratos.

Feb 23, 2025, 4:43 PM2 min read

MBSG creates history by winning back-to-back league shields

Hello and welcome to another live coverage of Indian football as we continue bringing you all the live updates of the Indian Super League 2024-25. Tonight, we will get you all the live updates, news, and live scores of the intense encounter between Mohun Bagan Super Giants vs Odisha FC at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Saltlake, Kolkata. 

Mohun Bagan SG is currently at the top of the league table, with 49 points from 21 games. The Mariners now need just a single win to become the Indian Super League 2024-25 league shield winners and defend their title. The Kolkata side will be the first to do so in the Indian Super League history. 

The Gaurs are currently second-placed and have 42 points in 21 encounters. FC Goa will reach a maximum of 51 points if they win their remaining games. Three points from this game will take Mohun Bagan Super Giants to 52, guaranteeing the shield for them.

On the other hand, Odisha FC is currently struggling to find themselves in the top 6 spot, they are currently in the seventh position with just 29 points in 21 encounters. Sixth-placed Mumbai City FC has 32 points and looks like the Kalinga Warriors can qualify for the playoffs, never won an away game against the Mariners in the four games.

The Kalinga Warriors come into this match on the back of a strong attacking record, having netted 40 goals from inside the box in the Indian Super League 2024-25 season, the highest of any team in the competition. However, they will face a challenge against the Mohun Bagan Super Giants, who have conceded only 11 goals lowest by any team in the Indian Super League 2024-25 season, while also keeping the most clean sheets (13) in the competition.

So, sit back and relax this is Swastik Debnath, who will bring you all the updates of this intense match from the web desk.

Moreover, you can follow us on Twitter for all the updates. Join our Telegram and WhatsApp channels to get all the news and scores.

LIVE Updates

Feb 23, 2025, 4:14 PM

League table after this match

Feb 23, 2025, 4:10 PM

Mohun Bagan is successfully defended the Indian Super League Shield

Feb 23, 2025, 4:04 PM

Final Whistle Blows!!!!! | Mohun Bagan SG 1-0 Odisha FC

Feb 23, 2025, 3:59 PM

90+11' | Throw in for Odisha

Feb 23, 2025, 3:58 PM

90+10' | Throw in for MBSG

Feb 23, 2025, 3:57 PM

90+8' | Corner for MBSG

Feb 23, 2025, 3:56 PM

90+7' | Throw in for MBSG

Feb 23, 2025, 3:53 PM

90+3' | Dimiiiiiii Petratosssssss!!!!!

What a strike by the Mariners' number 9, a powerful shot from outside the box, brilliant show by Dimi.

Feb 23, 2025, 3:51 PM

90+1' | Chance for MBSG

Manvir Singh's cross into the final third but Amrinder collects the ball

Feb 23, 2025, 3:49 PM

End of Regulation Time; Extra 9 minutes added

Feb 23, 2025, 3:49 PM

90' | Corner for MBSG

Feb 23, 2025, 3:48 PM

87' | Substitution for MBSG

In: Ashique Kuruniyan

OUT: Liston Colaco

Feb 23, 2025, 3:47 PM

86' | Double subs for Odisha

IN: Rynier Fernandes, Narendar Galhot

OUT: Hugo Boumous, Dorielton

Feb 23, 2025, 3:45 PM

86' | Substitution for MBSG

IN: Jason Cummings

OUT: Greg Stewart

Feb 23, 2025, 3:43 PM

84' | Odisha is down to ten men

Feb 23, 2025, 3:43 PM

83' | Free Kick to MBSG

Mourtada Fall committed a foul on Mourtada Fall, and Referee pulled off the Red 

Feb 23, 2025, 3:42 PM

82' | Petratosssssss!!!!!

Power shot from outside of the box by Dimi but Amrinder pulled off a great save

Feb 23, 2025, 3:40 PM

80' | Chance for MBSG

Unbelievable pass from Liston Colaco on the right side of the pitch, but Carlos Delgado declined the threat

Feb 23, 2025, 3:38 PM

77' | Triple subs for MBSG

IN: Dimi Petratos, Anirudh Thapa, Dippendu Biswas

OUT: Tom Aldred, Ashish Rai, Deepak Tangri

Feb 23, 2025, 3:35 PM

75' | Drinks break

Feb 23, 2025, 3:34 PM

74' | Corner for MBSG

Greg Stewart's ball from the corner into the final third but Aldred failed to net the ball by an inches

Feb 23, 2025, 3:33 PM

73' | Chance for MBSG

Stewart's ball for Ashish, his cross into the final third but the defense line declined the ball

Feb 23, 2025, 3:31 PM

70' | Double subs for Odisha

IN: Rohit Kumar, Jerry

OUT: Puitea, Isak Ralte

Feb 23, 2025, 3:28 PM

67' | Chance for MBSG

Greg Stewart's brilliant cross into the final third but a great defense by Odisha declined the threat

Feb 23, 2025, 3:25 PM

65' | Chance for Odisha

A solo run by Boumous ended with a rocket shot but Kaith pulled off a brilliant save

Feb 23, 2025, 3:24 PM

64' | Free Kick to Odisha

Greg Stewart committed a foul on Mourtada Fall

Feb 23, 2025, 3:23 PM

63' | Chance for MBSG

Liston's shot stopped by Amrinder

Feb 23, 2025, 3:22 PM

62' | Chance for Odisha

Hugo Boumous excellent pass from the free kick to Mourtada Fall, but Fall's header stopped by Kaith

Feb 23, 2025, 3:21 PM

61' | Free Kick to Odisha

Tom Aldred committed a foul on Hugo Boumous

Feb 23, 2025, 3:20 PM

60' | Chance for MBSG

Greg Stewart's reverse pass for Manvir Singh into the Odisha's box but Manvir failed to net the ball

Feb 23, 2025, 3:19 PM

58'| Substitution for Odisha

IN: Amey Ranawade

OUT: Jerry Lalrinzuala (Injury)

Feb 23, 2025, 3:17 PM

57' | Chance for Mohun Bagan

Manvir's solo run ended with a magnificent cross into the final third, but Greg Stewart failed to commit the ball.

Feb 23, 2025, 3:15 PM

55' | Free kick to MBSG

Rahim Ali committed a foul on Liston Colaco

Feb 23, 2025, 3:14 PM

54' | Chance for MBSG

Subhasish's excellent cross for Manvir, but Manvir's header missed the net by inches

Feb 23, 2025, 3:11 PM

51' | Throw in for Odisha

Deepak Tangri's clearance, Odisha won the throw in

Feb 23, 2025, 3:09 PM

50' | Great defense by Tom Aldred

Feb 23, 2025, 3:08 PM

49' | Corner for Odisha

Feb 23, 2025, 3:06 PM

47'| Great defense by Mourtada Fall

Feb 23, 2025, 3:06 PM

46' | Chance for Mohun Bagan

Greg Stewart cross into the final third but great defensive show by Fall

Feb 23, 2025, 3:04 PM

Second half Begins!!!

Feb 23, 2025, 2:49 PM

End of First half | Mohun Bagan SG 0-0 Odisha FC

Feb 23, 2025, 2:48 PM

45+1' | Back-to-back saves by Amrinder Singh

Thoiba Singh's rocket shot was saved by Amrinder, and the rebound was found by Maclaren and another save by Amrinder.

Feb 23, 2025, 2:46 PM

End of regulation time; Extra 2 minutes added time

Feb 23, 2025, 2:45 PM

45' | A rock solid defensive show by the Kalinga Warriors' defenders

Feb 23, 2025, 2:43 PM

43' | Corner for MBSG

Feb 23, 2025, 2:43 PM

41' | Brilliant defensive show by Odisha

A brilliant attack from Mohun Bagan, as Manvir's great run, and he put a cross into the final third, but Rahim Ali declined the chance

Feb 23, 2025, 2:41 PM

40' | Free kick to MBSG

Rahul committed a foul on Liston

Feb 23, 2025, 2:40 PM

40' | Throw in for Odisha

Feb 23, 2025, 2:40 PM

39' | Free kick for Odisha

Stewart committed a foul on Boumous

Feb 23, 2025, 2:39 PM

39' | Throw in for MBSG

Feb 23, 2025, 2:39 PM

38' | Free kick for Mohun Bagan

Dorielton committed a foul on Ralte

Feb 23, 2025, 2:38 PM

37' | Mohun Bagan is putting constant pressure on Odisha

Feb 23, 2025, 2:35 PM

34' | Drinks Break | Mohun Bagan 0-0 Odisha FC

Feb 23, 2025, 2:33 PM

33' | Corner for MBSG

Feb 23, 2025, 2:33 PM

32' | Great Save by Amrinder Singh

Jamie Maclaren's shot and Amrinder Singh pulled off a great save.

Feb 23, 2025, 2:31 PM

31' | Kalinga Warriors are putting constant domination on the Mariners

Feb 23, 2025, 2:30 PM

30' | Throw in for Odisha

Feb 23, 2025, 2:29 PM

28' | Great chance for MBSG

A handsome ball from Greg Stewart to Jamie Maclaren but Mourtada Fall's great defense denied the chance

Feb 23, 2025, 2:25 PM

24' | Alberto Rodriguez's solo run blocked by Rahul

Feb 23, 2025, 2:24 PM

23' | Chance for MBSG

An excellent delivery by Greg Stewart, but Mourtada Fall cleared the ball

Feb 23, 2025, 2:22 PM

22' | Free kick for MBSG

Rahim Ali committed a foul on Liston Colaco

Feb 23, 2025, 2:21 PM

21' | Throw in for Odisha

Feb 23, 2025, 2:20 PM

20' | Chance for Odisha

Hugo Boumous magical through ball for Rahul, but Rahul failed to net the ball.

Feb 23, 2025, 2:20 PM

19' | Counter attack by MBSG

Liston Colaco's run blocked by Fall

Feb 23, 2025, 2:18 PM

17' | Great defense by Ralte

Feb 23, 2025, 2:17 PM

15' | A horrible decision by Vishal Kaith

Rahul was pressing on Vishal Kaith, but the Goalkeeper of the Mariners kept the ball rather than clear it.

Feb 23, 2025, 2:15 PM

14' | Corner for Odisha

Hugo Boumous' delivery and Fall was unmarked, his header missed the net by inches

Feb 23, 2025, 2:14 PM

13' | The Visitors are putting constant pressure on hosts

Feb 23, 2025, 2:12 PM

12' | Mohun Bagan is looking to hold on to ball

Feb 23, 2025, 2:11 PM

9' | Great defense by Alberto Rodriguez

Rahim Ali's cross into the final third but Alberto cleared the threat

Feb 23, 2025, 2:09 PM

8' | Mohun Bagan is looking to hold on to ball

Feb 23, 2025, 2:08 PM

8' | Corner for MBSG

Feb 23, 2025, 2:08 PM

7' | Chance for MBSG

Liston Colaco won a duel against Rahim Ali, and Liston took a shot but failed to net it.

Feb 23, 2025, 2:06 PM

5' | Free Kick for Odisha

Manvir committed a foul on Jerry

Feb 23, 2025, 2:05 PM

5' | The Mariners are putting constant domination

Feb 23, 2025, 2:04 PM

4' | Throw in for Odisha

Feb 23, 2025, 2:04 PM

3' | Long shot by Alberto

Alberto Rodriguez's long shot from half-line but he skyrocketed the ball

Feb 23, 2025, 2:03 PM

3' | Throw in for Mohun Bagan

Feb 23, 2025, 2:02 PM

2' | The Kalinga Warriors are looking to hold on to ball

Feb 23, 2025, 2:00 PM

1' | Kick-off

The match is underway in Kolkata.

Feb 23, 2025, 1:18 PM

Grand Entry of the Mariners!

Feb 23, 2025, 1:18 PM

Starting XI | Odisha FC

Amrinder Singh (GK, C), Rahim Ali, Carlos Delgado, Mourtada Fall, Jerry Lalrinzuala, Thoiba Singh, Hugo Boumous, Puitea, Rahul KP, Isak Ralte, Dorielton Gomes

Head Coach: Sergio Lobera

Feb 23, 2025, 1:12 PM

Starting XI | Mohun Bagan Super Giants

Feb 23, 2025, 10:14 AM

Last training season before the huge clash!

Feb 23, 2025, 10:13 AM

Glory moment!

Feb 23, 2025, 10:12 AM

Big game ahead!

Feb 23, 2025, 10:12 AM

Last meeting in Odisha!

Feb 23, 2025, 10:11 AM

On the way to Kolkata!

Feb 23, 2025, 10:10 AM

Players to watch | Odisha FC

Hugo Boumous:

An individual who will not be in a party mood on Sunday will be ex-Mohun Bagan midfielder Hugo Boumous, who has enjoyed a prolific 2024-25 season with Odisha FC. He’s been one of their biggest sparks with his proactive threat in the opposition half, managing 10 goal contributions (four goals, six assists) in 19 games. Boumous comes into this goal after scoring and assisting in the win over Hyderabad FC in the last game.

Feb 23, 2025, 10:08 AM

Players to watch | Mohun Bagan SG

Jason Cummings:

Jason Cummings has excelled in his partnership with Jamie Maclaren at Mohun Bagan and looks very comfortable playing in that withdrawn center-forward role. The Australian forward has been a major creative threat for the Mariners, fueling their attacking moves with his clever passes and final product.

Feb 23, 2025, 10:00 AM

Head-to-head (Last 6 matches)

Competition Date Match Score Winner
ISL 2024-25 10-11-2024 Odisha FC vs Mohun Bagan SG 1-1 Tie
ISL 2023-24 28-04-2024 Mohun Bagan SG vs Odisha FC 2-0 Mohun Bagan won the match
ISL 2023-24 23-04-2024 Odisha FC vs Mohun Bagan SG 2-1 Odisha won the match
ISL 2023-24 24-02-2024 Odisha FC vs Mohun Bagan SG 0-0 tie
ISL 2023-24 06-12-2023 Mohun Bagan SG vs Odisha FC 2-2 tie
AFC Cup 27-11-2023 Mohun Bagan SG vs Odisha FC 2-5 Odisha won the match

 

Feb 23, 2025, 8:19 AM

Head-to-head stats (Indian Super League)

Total Matches: 14 matches

MBSG won: 6 won

OFC won: 2 won

Draw: 6 matches

Feb 23, 2025, 8:15 AM

Venue | Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan

VKBK Saltlake, Kolkata | Sportz Point

Feb 23, 2025, 8:13 AM

Match Details

Match: Mohun Bagan SG vs Odisha FC

Venue: Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Saltlake, Kolkata

Date: 23/02/2025

Time: 7:30 pm IST

Next Article

Why does Bruno Guimarães wear Jersey no. 39? Here is the emotional story behind it

Bruno Guimarães has worn Jersey no. 39 for every club he has played in. Sportz Point presents the emotional story behind the Brazilian midfielder's preference for choosing this certain number.

Feb 21, 2025, 5:12 PM5 min read

Why does Bruno Guimarães wear Jersey no. 39? Here is the emotional story behind it-sportzpoint.com

Bruno Guimarães is one of the most talented and prolific midfielders in the world football right now. The 27-year-old Brazilian currently plays for the Premier League side Newcastle United, where he established himself as one of the best midfielders in recent years with his sublime ball-playing ability and playmaking skills.

One of the most interesting things about Guimarães is that he wears an unusual number for a first-team central midfielder like him. Instead of the traditional four, six, or eight numbers for midfielders, the Brazilian wears the number 39 shirt.

Even more interestingly, the Brazilian has worn the 39-numbered Jersey in every club he has played in his senior club career so far, showing his intense attachment to this certain number. This surely raises a question among the fans, why does he always prefer this number?

Well, the reason behind it is very emotional and heartwarming. Guimarães pays homage to his father, who endured struggles as a taxi driver to help the player grow his football career.

The emotional story behind Guimarães' Jersey no. 39 

(Image Source | The Players' Tribune)

Burno's father Dick Guimarães used to be a taxi driver in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, as the number 39 was his vehicle's despatch number.

In the famous 'The Players' Tribune', Guimarães wrote an emotional article in February 2023, revealing the heart-warming reason behind his using the number so often and putting it up in his football shirts during his senior club career.

The number tells a story more beautiful than words can say. 39. I know people think it’s a weird number for a footballer. But for me 39 is special — no, it’s more than that. It's magical. The number 39 gave me everything in life. It got me here to Newcastle. It fed me, clothed me, and paid for three-hour bus rides to pursue my dream. #039 was the dispatch number of my father’s taxi in Rio de Janeiro.

He dived deeper into the emotional backstory, as later on he wrote:

My mother worked in a motorcycle shop. My father, of course, was a taxi driver. In Brazil, especially in Rio, this is a tough life. You work basically all day and night. But that yellow taxi kept my dream alive. Pretty much the only day I saw my father was on Saturday, when he came to watch me play football. It made me nervous, to be honest. My father was my hero. I didn’t want to disappoint him. And he was quite hard on me, at first. Sometimes he’d even say, 'I’m tired of seeing you lose. You can have an extra hamburger today, but only if you win.

"My journey was not a superstar’s story."

 

Bruno Guimarães pulled the emotional strings of his childhood complexities and sufferings but never overlooked the sacrifices his parents made.

I won’t lie. There were a few times that I had my bags packed. Once, I called my mom and told her to send me money for a bus ticket home. And I can hear her voice saying, “Stay calm. In a little while, we’ll be there together. This is your dream. This is what you want.” 

They used to drive up to see me in the taxi on weekends. Even on his day off, my dad couldn’t escape the yellow taxi, number 039. For three years, I struggled at the academy. By the time I was 17, I still didn’t have a professional contract. It’s crazy to think about kids like Vinicius Jr. and Endrick — 16, 17 years old and — they were already stars. Me, I was making backup plans to become a taxi driver like my father. I was only earning about R$400 a month, and I think my cellphone bill was R$100. If I didn’t get a pro contract at 18, I had to be realistic. I didn’t want my parents to be disappointed, so I lied and said that I was taking my license test because I dreamed of having a VW Beetle when I signed my contract. But really, I was working on my back-up for “real life.” 

I was months away from becoming 039 myself, if I didn’t get my break. 

(Image Source | The Players' Tribune)

Bruno also recalled an emotional phone call with his father when he was loaned to Brazilian side Athletico Paranaense in Brazil.

...When I was loaned to Athletico Paranaense, I was talking to my father on the phone on the day I arrived, and I said, “Hey, what number do you think I should take? I’m thinking of using 97, because I was born in 1997.” 

And he said, “What about 39? That is more than a number. 039 gave us everything we have, Bruno. Our house, our food, our furniture, your football boots. It was all because of our taxi.”...

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Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football

In this special article, Sportz Point explores the footballers in international football who played crucial roles in their team's success but often remained underrated.

Feb 7, 2025, 2:17 PM13 min read

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football | sportzpoint.com
(Image Credit | Getty Images)

Football is a sport that often brings limelight to certain footballers but sometimes keeps many at bay. Around football discussions worldwide, these footballers are not mentioned often, even after achieving significant accolades. 

Talking about the underrated footballers in International football, we must understand that it is very different from club football. It is tougher to leave a mark except performing in the continental and World Cup-like tournaments in every four years.

However, these footballers have always performed masterfully well while donning their national kit, bringing noteworthy achievements to their respective nations. Still, they have remained underrated in the consideration of either the fans or the football pundits.

Sportz Point explores the top 20 most underrated players in international football in this special article. This list is not a rank, but a summarisation of some underrated footballers who deserve more praise. 

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football

Angel Di Maria

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Argentina
  • Position: Right Winger
  • Appearances: 145
  • Goals: 31
  • Assists: 32

Notable trivia: Angel Di Maria is not given the importance he deserves for the recent successes of the Argentina National team. The 36-year-old winger retired from international football in July 2024, leaving behind an unmatched legacy. 

Most importantly, Di Maria won the 2022 FIFA World Cup, two Copa America titles in 2020 and 2024, and the Finalissima 2022, as he scored in each of the finals for Argentina except for the 2024 Copa, showing his towering presence for the national team. 

Di Maria remained underrated for the gigantic presence of Lionel Messi as his teammate, but nothing can belittle his huge contribution to Argentina's recent success of winning four trophies in four years.

Thomas Muller 

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Germany
  • Position: Attacking Midfielder
  • Appearances: 131
  • Goals: 45
  • Assists: 41

Notable trivia: Thomas Muller has 10 goals and 6 assists in 19 World Cup appearances for Germany. The attacking midfielder registered 5 goals and 3 assists in his first-ever World Cup campaign in 2010, earning him the Golden Boot.

In the following World Cup, Muller was pivotal in Germany's World Cup glory, having scored 5 goals and 3 assists. Although he lost the Golden Ball to Lionel Messi that year, Muller was undoubtedly the best player of the German team, along with Manuel Neuer and Miroslav Klose.

Muller won the 2014 World Cup and finished third in EURO 2012 with Germany, as he retired in July 2024 after Germany's elimination from the EURO 2024.

Olivier Giroud

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: France
  • Position: Forward
  • Appearances: 137
  • Goals: 57
  • Assists: 15

Notable trivia: Despite playing for a country that produced goalscorers such as Thierry Henry, Michel Platini, Karim Benzema, and David Trezeguet, Olivier Giroud tops the list of the all-time top scorers for the France national team with 57 goals.

Giroud's achievements are often overlooked both at the international and club levels, though he is one of the best French footballers of this generation. Giroud finished the EURO 2016 as the joint second-highest scorer, with 3 goals and 2 assists. 

Giroud was also part of the 2018 World Cup and 2021 Nations League-winning France team, providing significant contributions to the team. He also scored 4 goals for France in the 2022 World Cup. However, the striker retired from international football in July 2024.

Davor Šuker

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Croatia
  • Position: Forward
  • Appearances: 68
  • Goals: 45
  • Assists: 6

Notable trivia: Davor Šuker is arguably the greatest Croatian footballer ever, leaving an unparalleled legacy behind him for the national team.

The year 1998 is popularly known as the 'Davor Šuker Year' among football fans, as the forward led the Croatia team to a third-place finish in the 1998 World Cup. He also scored 6 goals in 7 appearances in the tournament to earn the Golden Boot. 

Šuker also won the Silver Ball as the second-best player of the tournament in 1998 WC. He is the top Croatian goalscorer of all time as well, bagging 45 goals in 68 official appearances before retiring in 2002.

Antoine Griezmann

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: France
  • Position: Attacking Midfielder
  • Appearances: 137
  • Goals: 44
  • Assists: 38

Notable trivia: Antoine Griezmann achieved innumerable honours with the France national team, but sadly, is often not regarded as one of the greatest international footballers ever. 

Griezmann led France to a second-place finish in EURO 2016, scoring 6 goals and 2 assists to win the Golden Boot. He was also named the Player of the Tournament in that edition.

However, Griezmann achieved his first senior international silverware in 2018, when France won the World Cup in Russia. The attacking midfielder was crucial for the team with a tally of 4 goals and the tournament-most of 4 assists, also being named the third-best player of the tournament.

Apart from the 2021 UEFA Nations League title, Girezmann orchestrated the French attack in the 2022 World Cup, providing three assists to be the joint-top assist provider. However, he retired from international football in September 2024.

Sergio Busquets

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Spain
  • Position: Defensive Midfielder
  • Appearances: 143
  • Goals: 2
  • Assists: 9

Notable trivia: We all are yet to see a central-defensive midfielder in modern football who has such a high IQ in reading the game, such as Sergio Busquets. 

Busquets was popularly called 'Octopus' for his immaculate passing ability and intimidating defensive screening without breaking a sweat most of the time. the Spanish midfielder became the heart of Barcelona but his contribution was often overlooked at the national team level.

In a star-studded midfield with Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta, Busquets emerged as the only one of his kind, making significant contributions to Spain's World Cup glory in 2010 and EURO 2012 victory. Busquets retired from international football in December 2022.

Hugo Lloris

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: France
  • Position: Goalkeeper
  • Appearances: 145
  • Clean sheets: 68

Notable trivia: It is said in football, that being a goalkeeper is a 'thankless job'. Goalkeepers are always the last guardian of a team, but their contributions are hugely overlooked. Hugo Lloris, the former French goalkeeper is a burning example of that sensation.

Lloris kept three clean-sheets in all 7 appearances for France in the World Cup 2018, leading the team to the final glory. The French custodian has kept a staggering 68 clean-sheets overall for France in 145 appearances.

He also captained the Les Bleus in three World Cup editions from 2014 to 2022. Lloris retired from the national team in January 2023, being the most-capped player for France in history.

Edin Džeko

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Bosnia & Herzegovina
  • Position: Forward
  • Appearances: 139
  • Goals: 67
  • Assists: 29

Notable trivia: Edin Džeko is not often mentioned as one of the best international footballers in the modern era, only because he represents a country like Bosnia, that mostly fail to apear in big tournaments.

Yet Džeko, the greatest Bosnian footballer, led the Bosnia team to its first-ever World Cup appearance in 2014 after scoring a whopping 10 goals to be the second-top scorer in the qualification round.

He also scored 9 goals in the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying round to be the second-top scorer in the qualification round as well. Džeko also ranks sixth among the active footballers with most international goals.

Michael Laudrup

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Denmark
  • Position: Midfielder
  • Appearances: 103
  • Goals: 37
  • Assists: 14

Notable trivia: Michael Laudrup is often considered the greatest Danish footballer of all time, yet he doesn't always receive the full recognition that his remarkable talent deserves. He delivered outstanding performances for Denmark, scoring 37 goals in 103 appearances.

Laudrup won the 1995 Confederations Cup with Denmark, providing commendable performances throughout the tournament. German legend Franz Beckenbauer praised the Danish midfielder in the best possible way, saying, “Pele was the best in the 60s, Cruyff in the 70s, Maradona in the 80s, and Laudrup in the 90s.”

Gabriel Batistuta

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Argentina
  • Position: Forward
  • Appearances: 78
  • Goals: 56
  • Assists: 14

Notable trivia: Gabriel Batistuta was nicknamed 'Batigol' for his ability to score from almost anywhere on the pitch with unmatched power and precision.

Batistuta was mostly recognized for his inhuman performance in the 1991 Copa America, as Argentina won the title and he was the highest goalscorer of the tournament with 6 goals. He won his second Copa with Argentina in 1993, scoring a brace in the final.

Although he could not achieve the coveted success in the World Cups, Batistuta was one of the greatest footballers for Argentina in the World Cups, with 10 goals in 12 appearances.

Andrea Pirlo

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Italy
  • Position: Midfielder
  • Appearances: 116
  • Goals: 13
  • Assists: 25

Notable trivia: Current UEFA vice-president and former Polish footballer Zbigniew Boniek praised Andrea Pirlo by saying something that probably best defines the Italian midfielder. He stated, "To pass the ball to Andrea Pirlo is like to hide it in a safe."

Andrea Pirlo is inarguably one of the most prolific playmakers who ever graced the football pitch. Famous for his outstanding passing and free-kick skills, Pirlo was essential to Italy's victory in the 2006 World Cup. Pirlo won three man of the match awards in the tournament, most by any player in that edition. 

Retiring in 2017, Pirlo remains one of the supreme players who played exceptionally well at international levels, but the recognition was never enough to praise the midfied maestro.

Ronald Koeman

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Netherlands
  • Position: Defender
  • Appearances: 78
  • Goals: 14
  • Assists: 10

Notable trivia: Ronald Koeman is often overlooked, but he was a top-tier central defender known for his exceptional passing ability and masterful free-kick skills. With a record of 238 goals across club and international levels, Koeman is the highest-scoring defender in football history. 

However, the defender was a crucial part of Rinus Michels' formidable Netherlands team in the 90s, which won the 1988 European Championship. He also won the Dutch Footballer of the Year award twice in 1987 and 1988.

Klaas-Jan Huntelaar

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Netherlands
  • Position: Forward
  • Appearances: 76
  • Goals: 42
  • Assists: 12

Notable trivia: Klaas-Jan Huntelaar is often overlooked among the contemporary Dutch stars of his generation. The forward is the third-highest goalscorer for the Dutch national team, with 42 goals.

Although he had a brief appearance in the 2010 World Cup, Huntelaar proved himself crucial for the team, scoring the most goals (12) in the 2012 European championship qualification round.

However, he was also a part of the Netherlands squad that finished third in the 2014 World Cup. He retired in 2021 but never got the recognition he deserved.

George Best

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Northern Ireland
  • Position: Winger
  • Appearances: 37
  • Goals: 9
  • Assists: 0

Notable trivia: "Maradona Good, Pele Better, George Best" is the greatest quotation that can define how good George Best was. The Irish winger is also considered as the greatest footballer who never played in a World Cup. 

Despite having immense talent and potential, he is often overlooked in the discussion of the greatest footballers. He was named European Player of the Year in 1968, delivering consistent performance for his club and national team.

If he did not struggle with his self-destructing lifestyle, he may have achieved more accolades with Northern Ireland before retiring in 1982.

Gheorghe Hagi

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Romania
  • Position: Attacking Midfielder
  • Appearances: 124
  • Goals: 35
  • Assists: 23

Notable trivia: Gheorghe Hagi was such a good player that he was nicknamed "Maradona of the Carpathians". The attacking midfielder was also called 'Regele', which translates to 'The King' for his immaculate shooting ability, playmaking skills, and vision on the pitch.

The attacking midfielder was the heart of an exciting Romania team of the 1990s. Hagi put up a memorable performance for Romania in the 1994 World Cup, scoring 3 goals and providing 4 assists to lead the team to the quarter-finals, where they eventually lost against Sweden.

He retired in 2001 but still holds the record for the most goals scored for the Romania national team, alongside Adrian Mutu, with 35 goals.

Günter Netzer

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Germany
  • Position: Midfielder
  • Appearances: 37
  • Goals: 6
  • Assists: 9

Notable trivia: Günter Netzer played an integral role in Germany's 1972 European Championship victory.
The midfielder provided two assists in the semi-final of the tournament, inspiring a 2-1 win over Belgium.

Netzer was also included in the 1974 World Cup squad for Germany. Although he did not play in the final, Netzer is still regarded as the first World Cup winner who, at the time of his victory, played for a club based outside his home country.

Despite not having many opportunities to represent the national team, he was often considered as one of the best German footballers in the 70s.

Hristo Stoichkov

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Bulgaria
  • Position: Winger
  • Appearances: 83
  • Goals: 37
  • Assists: 8

Notable trivia: Hristo Stoichkov was the standout performer in the 1994 World Cup as he inspired Bulgaria to a fourth-place finish and was awarded the Golden Boot for being the top scorer with 6 goals. In the tournament, he scored in the shock wins against Argentina in the Group stage and against Germany in the quarter-finals.

Stoichkov, who re-defined the 'inverted winger' role in world football, scored 37 goals in 83 games for the Bulgarian national team before retiring from international football in 1999.

Gaetano Scirea

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Italy
  • Position: Sweeper Defender
  • Appearances: 78
  • Goals: 2
  • Assists: 1

Notable trivia: Despite Franco Baresi's absence, Gaetano Scirea was pivotal in Italy’s victorious 1982 World Cup-winning campaign. The defender, who played mostly as a sweeper, remained underrated due to his contemporary Italian defenders. 

Playing for a country where the best defenders are born and brought up, Scirea always stayed out of the recognition. His untimely death at the age of 36 in 1989 also restricted his legacy.

Rudi Völler 

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Germany
  • Position: Forward
  • Appearances: 90
  • Goals: 47
  • Assists: 18

Notable trivia: Rudi Völler was a very dependable player striker at both club and international levels. He came off the bench to equalize in the 1986 World Cup Final after scoring in the semi-final against France. Unfortunately, the Germans lost the final against Argentina. However, after four years, he played a crucial role for Germany that became World Champions in 1990, scoring 3 goals and 2 assists.

His contemporary Jurgen Klinsmann always received the highlight for the Germans, but it can not tear down his achievements with the national team. Völler's international goal-scoring record is impressive with a staggering 47 goals in 90 caps.

Matthias Sammer

Top 20 Most Underrated Players in International Football-sportzpoint.com

  • National team: Germany
  • Position: Defensive/Central Midfielder
  • Appearances: 51
  • Goals: 8
  • Assists: 3

Notable trivia: Matthias Sammer was sometimes overlooked compared to their contemporary Franco Baresi and Paolo Maldini. However, he played a crucial role in Germany's victory at the 1996 European Championship, where he was named the tournament's best player. 

The midfielder also won the Ballon d'Or in 1996 and was also named the German Footballer of the Year in 1996, after earning the same accolade in 1995.

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