The 2006 World Cup featured an exceptional generation of footballers, from established legends playing their final tournament to emerging stars announcing themselves on the world stage.
Zinedine Zidane (France) - Golden Ball Winner
The tournament's most compelling narrative centered on Zidane's farewell. The French maestro won the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player, dominating matches with his sublime technique and vision. His chipped penalty in the final demonstrated the audacity that defined his career, while his red card for the headbutt on Materazzi became an indelible moment in football history.
Fabio Cannavaro (Italy)
The Italian captain epitomized defensive excellence. Standing just 5'9", Cannavaro used anticipation, timing, and exceptional reading of the game to anchor Italy's defense. His World Cup performances earned him the 2006 FIFA World Player of the Year and Ballon d'Or awards - rare honors for a defender.
Gianluigi Buffon (Italy) - Yashin Award Winner
Italy's goalkeeper conceded just two goals in seven matches - both from set pieces. His save from Zidane's header in the final, turning the ball onto the crossbar, ranks among the greatest in World Cup history. Buffon's composure under pressure proved decisive in Italy's triumph.
Miroslav Klose (Germany) - Golden Boot Winner
The German striker finished as the tournament's leading scorer with five goals, claiming the Golden Boot. His aerial ability and movement made him a constant threat, while his celebration - the trademark backflip - became iconic. Klose would eventually become the World Cup's all-time leading scorer.
Ronaldo (Brazil)
The Brazilian phenomenon added three goals to his World Cup tally, including a brace against Japan that made him the tournament's all-time leading scorer (a record since surpassed by Klose). Though Brazil exited in the quarter-finals, Ronaldo's legacy as one of the greatest strikers ever was secure.
Thierry Henry (France)
France's all-time leading scorer delivered crucial goals against Brazil and Spain. His pace, movement, and finishing quality made him one of the tournament's most dangerous forwards, complementing Zidane's creativity perfectly.
Andrea Pirlo (Italy)
The deep-lying playmaker orchestrated Italy's attacks with pinpoint passing and set-piece delivery. His free-kicks and corners created numerous chances, while his composure on the ball allowed Italy to control matches. The final penalty shootout saw him calmly convert Italy's first kick.
Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
At 21, Ronaldo was still developing into the global superstar he would become. His pace, skill, and willingness to take on defenders marked him as a future Ballon d'Or winner. Controversially, his role in Wayne Rooney's red card against England dominated headlines.
Frank Lampard (England)
The Chelsea midfielder contributed three goals and was England's most consistent performer. His striking from midfield and tireless work rate embodied the qualities that would make him a Premier League legend.
Lukas Podolski (Germany) - Best Young Player
The young German striker announced himself with three goals, including a brace in the opening match against Costa Rica. Podolski won the Best Young Player award, heralding a new era for German football.
These players represented the tournament's highest quality, their performances ensuring the 2006 World Cup's place among the competition's most memorable editions.
For player statistics and history, visit Transfermarkt.