Colombia is gearing up for the biggest event in world football, the World Cup, and they have some of the greatest players in the history of their nation. In an effort to assess and honor their talent, Bestsoccertips – one of the reputable sources of football information – has compiled and published a list of the top 10 best Colombian soccer player currently.
Who is the best Colombian soccer player?
1. Carlos “El Pibe” Valderrama
Known for his charismatic blond afro hair, exquisite ball-handling skills, and strong personality, Carlos Valderrama has become an icon for a generation of Colombian football. Combining leadership qualities with outstanding talent in the attacking midfielder role, Valderrama played a crucial role in the rise of the Colombian national team in the 1990s, a period referred to as Colombia’s “golden years” in football.
During his time representing the national team, Valderrama participated in three consecutive World Cups from 1990 to 1998. He became an irreplaceable pillar in the Colombian lineup, serving as a vital motivator and important bridge between generations of players. With resilience and determination, he played in 111 international matches, overcoming all odds to become the most capped player in the history of the Colombian national team. This achievement not only highlights Valderrama’s personal success but also serves as clear evidence of his unwavering commitment and contribution to the development of Colombian football.
2. Willington Ortiz
According to many, Ortiz is considered the player with the finest skills Colombia has ever seen. With versatility, speed, coordination, and unique beauty in his style of play, Ortiz stands out among thousands of talented Colombian players. He is an emblem of talent and creativity in Colombian football.
Ortiz played a crucial role in the development of Colombian football as the captain of the national team from 1976 to 1986. His leadership not only helped the Colombian team achieve numerous successes but also demonstrated respect and pride for his country.
Moreover, Ortiz is also one of the highest-scoring players in the history of Colombian football, with a total of 187 goals in his career. Among these, 12 goals were scored while representing the national team. Ortiz’s goals are not only a symbol of individual talent but also a source of pride for Colombia on its journey to success on the international stage.
3. Freddy Rincon
While Valderrama is an icon of a generation of Colombian football, Freddy Rincon will be remembered as the most reliable player of his generation. As a forward with incredible potential and attacking prowess, Rincon was not only a crucial goal scorer in decisive matches but also played a significant role as a solid foundation for the team.
In Colombian football history, Rincon left a special mark with important goals, such as the impressive 5-0 victory over Argentina in the 1994 World Cup qualifiers. Not only an excellent goal scorer, Rincon was an indispensable part of the tactical scheme, acting as a balancing force between the defense and attack of the team.
With versatility and adaptability on the field, Rincon proved himself to be one of the most important players in the history of Colombian football, contributing to the team’s great successes.
4. Faustino “El Tino” Asprilla
Asprilla, one of Colombia’s greatest forwards during their golden era, particularly in the 1990s, was honored by FIFA in 1996 as the sixth-best player globally. Asprilla’s talent led him to sign contracts with top clubs such as Parma, Newcastle United, Palmeiras, and Fluminense.
With lightning-fast speed and exquisite ball-handling skills, Asprilla made a strong impression and won the hearts of fans, becoming one of Colombia’s most illustrious football stars of all time. His playing style combined fighting spirit and intelligence, providing special moments and memorable memories for Colombian football lovers and fans worldwide.
5. Radamel “El Tigre” Falcao
Considered one of the “most dangerous” forwards globally, Falcao has had powerful performances that played a crucial role in guiding the Colombian national team through the World Cup 2014 qualifiers in Brazil. Currently ranked second on Colombia’s all-time top scorers list with 20 goals, Falcao has demonstrated his ability to find the net.
Expectations for Colombia’s leading striker and Europe’s most expensive player are immense, and the world will eagerly await to see what Falcao will achieve this year in Brazil. With fighting spirit and shining talent, he is preparing to establish a new legacy in his career, which will undoubtedly attract global football attention.
6. Rene “El Loco” Higuita
A star from Colombia’s golden era of football in the 1990s, René Higuita holds the record for the most goals scored by any Colombian goalkeeper, with a total of 30 goals throughout his career. He was famous for his unique style and daring actions, often referred to by fans as “el loco” – “the madman.” Higuita also became famous for his spectacular saves, known as the “scorpion kick” at Wembley Stadium in 1995.
With talent and courage, Higuita was not only an excellent goalkeeper but also a symbol of innovation and creativity in playing style. His outstanding performances not only mesmerized Colombian fans but also left an indelible mark in global football history.
7. Arnold Iguaran
Iguaran holds the record for the most goals scored for the Colombian national team with 25 goals in 68 matches from 1979 to 1993. His career primarily unfolded at the club Millonarios in the Colombian league, where he scored 120 goals in 336 appearances. Despite his remarkable goal-scoring ability, this legendary forward never played outside Colombia and Venezuela.
Iguaran’s achievement of 25 goals for the Colombian national team is remarkable, showcasing his consistency and effectiveness in his role. With significant influence on Colombian football, Iguaran became an emblem of the country’s success and pride in sports.
At Millonarios, Iguaran also scored a considerable number of goals, demonstrating stability and high performance in every season. This ability not only increased his value in the eyes of fans but also solidified his position in the club’s history.
Though Iguaran never ventured beyond Colombia and Venezuela in his playing career, it does not diminish the value of his significant contributions to Colombian football. It only emphasizes his commitment and passion for his country and club.
8. Mario Alberto Yepes
Known as “Super Mario” for his outstanding defensive abilities, Mario is one of the rare Colombian players to have played for both the golden generation of football that ended in 2001 and the new generation that brought Colombia to the doorstep of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
Mario played a crucial role in maintaining the stability and quality of the Colombian national team through various periods. With his fighting spirit and excellent game reading abilities, he became an indispensable pillar of the team, laying the foundation for Colombia’s development and success in international football.
From previous golden generations to promising new generations, Mario’s presence on the field contributed to building a strong Colombia that challenges any opponent. It was a perfect combination of experience and talent, a reliable anchor for the Colombian national team in every important match.
9. Leonel Alvarez
Leonel played a crucial role as a defensive midfielder for the Colombian national team in the country’s first golden generation. He participated in 101 matches for Colombia from 1985 to 1995. With discipline and patience, Leonel became one of the most loyal and reliable soldiers on the field.
Beyond his playing career, Leonel also found success as a coach for Independiente Medellin. He led the team to a championship in 2009, a significant achievement for a once considered underdog team. Leonel’s assured approach to football and tactics garnered admiration from Colombian football fans.
Leonel’s talent was not only evident in his success on the field but also in his leadership and positive influence on young players and fans. It was a significant contribution to the development and enhancement of Colombian football both domestically and internationally.
10. Adolfo “The Train” Valencia
During his time with the Colombian national team from 1992 to 1998, Valencia scored an impressive 14 goals. With agility and superior technical ability, he became one of Colombia’s most feared forwards.
When Valencia sprinted and pierced through the opponent’s defense, goalkeepers knew he would arrive with hardly any chance to stop him. Valencia’s exceptional speed often left opposing defenders helpless, and he capitalized on this to create dangerous scoring opportunities for the Colombian national team.
Beyond being an excellent goal scorer, Valencia was also a source of inspiration and motivation for teammates and fans. His determination and fighting spirit played a crucial role in the Colombian national team’s success in the early years of the 1990s.
Conclusion
The roster of top Colombian soccer players epitomizes a legacy of excellence deeply ingrained in the nation’s footballing heritage. From the iconic leadership of Carlos Valderrama to the goal-scoring prowess of Freddy Rincon and Arnold Iguaran, each player has left an indelible mark on Colombian football. Their remarkable skills, unwavering dedication, and contributions to both club and country have not only elevated Colombian football to global recognition but also inspired generations of players and fans alike. As Colombia continues to write its footballing story, these players serve as timeless symbols of passion, talent, and pride, shaping the nation’s footballing identity for years to come.
