FIFA Club World Cup: The 5 greatest teams in tournament history

1980s: AC Milan

Serie A dominated world soccer throughout the 1980s with AC Milan the world’s best team. Led by the Dutch trio of Marco van Basten, Ruud Gullit and Frank Rijkaard, and Italian internationals Franco Baresi, Paolo Maldini and Carlo Ancelotti, the Rossoneri captured two consecutive European Cups (in 1989 and 1990) as well as the Intercontinental Cup in both those years.

Under the ownership of Silvio Berlusconi and the coaching methods of Arrigo Sacchi, AC Milan were a force of nature. Sacchi introduced zonal marking to the team, breaking from the Italian tradition of catencaccio highlighted by a strong defense and counter-attacking style. Instead, Sacchi demanded his defense use an offside trap with support from the midfield, while calling on his individual stars in attack to score the goals.

“The only way you can build a side is by getting players who can play a team game,” Sacchi recalled. “You can’t achieve anything on your own, and if you do, it doesn’t last long. I often quote what Michelangelo said: ‘The spirit guides the hand.'”

In 1989, AC Milan defeated Atletico Nacional of Colombia 1-0 in extra time in Tokyo. A goal from Alberigo Evani decided the match. A year later, the Rossoneri repeated the feat, downing Olimpia of Paraguay 3-0 with two goals by Rijkaard.