The 30 best players in World Cup history
By James Dudko
23. Andreas Brehme, Germany
Not many full-backs raided forward with the energy and swagger of Andreas Brehme. Even fewer players, at any position, had the defender’s knack for producing in big matches.
Brehme’s signature contributions for West Germany came when it mattered most. He scored his country’s first goal in a 2-0 semifinal win over France in ’86.
Brehme was a semifinal hero again in Italy four years later. He put the Germans in front against England, before also striking from the spot in the shootout.
Even better was in store for the Bayern Munich and Inter Milan ace in the final. He won the cup when he stroked home another penalty in the final five minutes to beat Argentina in a disappointing final.
The fact left-footed Brehme struck the spot-kick with his less-favored right summed up his technical quality. He could generate power from either foot, whether from open play or in set-piece situations.
Brehme’s engine, craft and ability to deliver in the clutch embodied West Germany’s dominance during this period.