Rafael Albrecht

A tough, intelligent Argentine centre-back with the instincts of a stopper and the authority of a libero, Rafael Albrecht was one of those defenders who made physicality look almost intellectual. Strong in the challenge, sharp in anticipation and calm enough to organise from the back, he became a major figure for San Lorenzo, especially in the famous unbeaten Matadores side of 1968. He was also unusually dangerous for a defender, scoring heavily through penalties and set-piece situations, which gives him that extra old-school South American edge. With Argentina, he played at both the 1962 and 1966 World Cups, adding international weight to a career that deserves more attention. Not elegant like a museum piece, but complete, commanding and mean in all the useful ways. A defender built to win duels, lead lines and occasionally ruin a goalkeeper’s afternoon from the spot.