Best 15Argentinaof the 2000s

A 2006 World Cup squad member who became the world's outstanding player by the end of the decade, winning the 2009 Ballon d'Or after developing into an extraordinary scorer and creator.

Argentina's principal playmaker at the 2006 World Cup, controlling matches through exceptional vision, technique, passing and set-piece delivery during his peak years.

An elite, tactically versatile full-back and Argentina captain whose consistency, athleticism and technical quality remained world-class throughout the decade.

Argentina's leading striker at the 2006 World Cup, scoring three goals, after also appearing in 2002; one of the decade's most accomplished penalty-box finishers.

Argentina's defensive leader and 2006 captain, renowned for anticipation, aerial ability and clean tackling; he scored against Germany in the quarter-final.

A dynamic forward who scored at the 2006 World Cup and became one of Argentina's most internationally prominent attackers through relentless pressing, strength and creativity.

An indispensable ball-winner at the 2006 World Cup who rapidly became the foundation of Argentina's midfield through positioning, intensity and defensive intelligence.

Argentina's iconic centre-forward entered the decade as an elite scorer and struck the winning goal against Nigeria at the 2002 World Cup, his third tournament.

One of the era's strongest central defenders, nicknamed 'The Wall' for his marking, tackling and physical authority; he represented Argentina at the 2002 World Cup.

A technically commanding midfielder and central figure in Argentina's 2002 side, valued for his long-range passing, vision, shooting and control of tempo.

A highly intelligent and complete midfielder who finished Argentina's celebrated team goal against Serbia and Montenegro at the 2006 World Cup.

A gifted playmaker selected for both World Cups of the decade, combining close control, acceleration and imaginative passing at the highest club and international levels.

An energetic attacking left-back present at both World Cups, captaining Argentina in 2006 and providing leadership, stamina and constant support on the flank.

A combative and versatile defender who started throughout Argentina's 2006 campaign, offering aggressive marking, aerial strength and the ability to play centrally or at left-back.

Argentina's first-choice goalkeeper at the 2006 World Cup, conceding only two goals before an injury forced him out of the quarter-final against Germany.