Best 15Brazilof the 2000s

The defining Brazilian World Cup player of the decade: Golden Boot winner and champion in 2002, then became the tournament's all-time leading scorer in 2006.

A generational creator at his mid-decade peak and the 2005 Ballon d'Or winner; he was also a prominent member of Brazil's 2002 World Cup-winning attack.

A 2002 squad member who developed into the world's leading attacking midfielder, winning the 2007 Ballon d'Or and entering the 2006 World Cup as a major star.

An indispensable member of the 2002 champions who scored five goals and combined brilliantly with Ronaldo and Ronaldinho throughout the tournament.

Brazil's explosive first-choice left-back at both tournaments, a 2002 champion and one of the most influential attacking defenders in football history.

Captain of the 2002 World Cup winners and still Brazil's starting right-back in 2006, combining leadership, endurance and outstanding attacking support.

One of the decade's most intimidating power forwards, entering the 2006 World Cup after starring in Brazil's 2004 Copa América and 2005 Confederations Cup wins.

An ever-present defender in Brazil's 2002 triumph who subsequently became the leader of the back line and played every minute of the 2006 campaign.

One of Brazil's leading midfielders of the decade and a starter in 2006, valued for his ball recovery, positioning, strength and controlled distribution.

A tactically vital defensive midfielder who started throughout the 2002 triumph and remained an important, dependable squad member in 2006.

One of the world's leading goalkeepers during the decade; he was a reserve champion in 2002 before starting all five of Brazil's matches in 2006.

Brazil's most consistent performer at the 2006 World Cup, offering exceptional versatility, ball retention, work rate and intelligent midfield movement.

A composed and positionally excellent centre-back who started every match for Brazil in 2006 and established himself as a long-term defensive mainstay.

Brazil's starting goalkeeper throughout the victorious 2002 campaign, producing assured performances and conceding only four goals in seven matches.

A versatile defensive midfielder and centre-back who started five matches during the 2002 triumph and scored a memorable overhead kick against Costa Rica.