ONE LAST TIME

Published : Jun 03, 2006 00:00 IST

Luis Figo: This is the last chance for the FIFA World Player of the year in 2001 to display his pinpoint passing and crossing skills in the biggest event of them all, the World Cup.

Figo, 33, who has won two La Liga titles apiece with Barcelona and Real Madrid and a Champions League title with Real, thrilled lovers of international football during Euro 2000, when he guided the brilliantly attacking Portugal to the semifinal before losing to eventual champions France. He went one step further in 2004, reaching the final of the tournament where Portugal surprisingly lost at home to defensive Greece.

Roberto Carlos : The 33-year-old Brazilian and Real Madrid player, who is considered the best left-back of all-time, will look to add to his kitty of three Champions League titles and one World Cup win not to speak of the four La Liga titles he has won with Real Madrid. For the last time, fans will see him tearing down the left in attack and falling back in defence at the same speed. Watch out for some of those trademark free-kicks and the left-foot bullets.

Cafu: Brazil's veteran right-back and captain could well become a World Cup legend in Germany, his last tournament. If his team wins, he will become the first captain to win back-to-back World Cups. A possible win would mean that Cafu, 36, and team-mate Ronaldo would join Pele as the only players who have won the World Cup three times; he was part of Brazil's successful 1994 campaign as well.

Alessandro Del Piero: He has been Italy's hope ever since he inherited the mantle of main goal scorer from Roberto Baggio, both for country as well as for club Juventus. Germany will be the last chance for the stylish 31-year-old forward to prove himself in the international game though it can safely be said that he is already a Juventus legend. Del Pierro will play behind the striker in Germany, or play as a wide midfielder.

Raul Gonzalez : The Real Madrid legend who will turn 29 during the course of the World Cup, has won three UEFA Champions League medals and four La Liga titles and this is the last chance for him to end his and his nation's history of underachievement in top international events such as the World Cup and the European Nations Cup. He has been struggling for form last season, but Spain manager Luis Aragones will play him as his second striker because of his exemplary work ethic and leadership qualities. His predatory instincts in front of goal are second to none.

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