Rio Ferdinand picks the most iconic defensive performances in FIFA World Cup history

England legend Rio Ferdinand has enjoyed a look back at some of the best individual performances in World Cup history through the lens of the FIFA Power Rankings, powered by Aramco.

The former Manchester United star, who was known as one of the most elegant ball-playing defenders during his career, has focused on two legendary centre-backs and one goalkeeper.

Fabio Cannavaro, Italy 2006

Fabio Cannavaro captained Italy to their fourth World Cup title in 2006 in Germany and is Ferdinand’s first pick when it comes to legendary defensive performances on the global stage.

The defender certainly wasn’t a traditional centre-back, measuring only 5ft 9in (175cm) in height, but he could certainly make his influence felt on a football pitch.

“His personality, his character, his stature on the football field didn't quite represent his stature when you see him in real life. He's tiny as a centre-back,” says Ferdinand. However, Cannavaro made up for his lack of height with his vision, skill and sheer force of will.

“The way he anticipated things, his one v one duels, his aggression and determination, his personality and character,” explained Ferdinand. “He knitted this team together at the back. If you are going to win a tournament the size of the World Cup, you have to have a good defence.”

Italy only conceded two goals on their way to the title, while Cannavaro went on to win the Ballon d’Or later in 2006.

Carles Puyol, Spain 2010

Spain won the World Cup for the first time in 2010 in South Africa and were propelled to victory by a stubborn defence that was led by Barcelona legend Carles Puyol.

The Barcelona legend also popped up with important goals, heading Spain into the final of World Cup 2010 with the winner against Germany, and Ferdinand explains what made him so special.

“His anticipation, his aggression, his determination, his will to win, every challenge, every duel in every game,” says Ferdinand. “It sends great shockwaves through the team. He wins balls in just unconventional ways, different angles, you think you are past him and then all of a sudden he gets the ball.”

Emi Martinez, Argentina 2022

Argentina star Emi Martinez is Ferdinand’s pick when it comes to goalkeepers. The Aston Villa stopper played a key role in 2022 when Lionel Scaloni’s side tasted glory in Qatar. Martinez made a huge save from Randal Kolo Muani in the final against France and produced more heroics in the shoot-out as Argentina prevailed on penalties.

Ferdinand is in no doubt just how vital Martinez was to Argentina’s victory, adding: “In Argentina, he will go down in folklore, in history, as one of the best they’ve had and one of the most productive. They don’t win the World Cup without him.”