Carlos Valderrama

The year 2004 marked the hundredth anniversary of the founding of FIFA, soccer''s international governing body. To celebrate the milestone, the legendary Brazilian star Pelé was asked to compile a list of the greatest living players. There was only one Colombian on Pelé''s 125-player list: Carlos "El Pibe" Valderrama. Few knowledgeable fans would take issue with Valderrama''s inclusion. The midfielder is widely regarded as the greatest player in the history of Colombian soccer. He played in a record 111 games for the Colombian National Team. He also shone in leagues in South America, Europe, and the United States. El Pibe retired in 2004 after a sparkling 25-year professional career.