Ranking the Greatest Uruguay Players in Football History

Uruguay boasts an extraordinary football history that sets them apart from any other nation in the world. Despite being a small South American country with a population of just under three and a half million, Uruguay's football dominance emerged in the 1920s, where they achieved remarkable success by conquering almost every major tournament. Their crowning achievement came in 1930 when they became the inaugural FIFA World Cup champions.

Twenty years later, Uruguay stunned the world once again by defeating Brazil in the 1950 World Cup Final at the Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro. This historic match remains the highest attended in World Cup history and is considered one of the greatest upsets in the realm of sports. Such remarkable moments have solidified Uruguay's reputation as a football powerhouse, consistently producing some of the world's finest players.

The following list showcases both the stars of Uruguay's two World Cup triumphs and some of the more renowned contemporary football greats hailing from the nation, reflecting their rich and unique footballing legacy.

Ranking factors

• Quality as a player
• Achievements with Uruguay
• Importance in wider football history

10. Diego Godin

Career span: 2003-2023

Diego Godin, often considered one of the most underrated defenders of his generation, is highly adored by both Uruguay supporters and Atletico Madrid fans. He achieved great success with his nation, winning the Copa America in 2011, and experienced the peak of his career during his time at Atletico Madrid from 2010 to 2019.

Godin's journey in European football began at Villarreal before he made the pivotal move to the Spanish capital. It was under the guidance of fellow South American Diego Simeone that Godin flourished, securing notable achievements such as a La Liga title, a Copa del Rey victory, and two Europa League triumphs. After his stint at Atletico Madrid, he ventured to Italy, first joining Inter Milan and later Cagliari, before eventually returning to South America. In 2023, Godin decided to retire, concluding a remarkable career that left a lasting impact in the world of football.

9. Alcides Ghiggia

Career span: 1945-1967

Alcides Ghiggia, the last surviving member of Uruguay's 1950 World Cup-winning team, sadly passed away on July 16, 2015, marking 65 years since the pinnacle of his career.

Ghiggia, a skillful and speedy right winger, played a pivotal role in one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history. His decisive goal, fired into the near post, secured an unlikely victory for underdogs Uruguay over Brazil on their home soil. This iconic moment stands as one of Uruguay's most cherished achievements in sporting history, while it remains a somber memory for many Brazilian supporters, who still mourn the event known as "O Maracanaco" (The Great Maracana Disaster) almost 74 years later.

At the club level, Ghiggia enjoyed five successful years with Penarol, winning two Uruguayan Primera Division titles. He later represented Italy at the international level and spent eight seasons with Roma, where he earned a place in the Hall of Fame. Ghiggia concluded his club career at AC Milan, clinching the Serie A title in the 1961/62 season.

8. Diego Forlan

Career span: 1997-2018

Diego Forlan, a true icon of Uruguayan football, left an indelible mark on supporters with his exceptional performances at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

As the blonde-haired number 10, Forlan single-handedly propelled his nation to the semi-finals, only to be defeated by the Netherlands. At the age of 31 during that tournament, Forlan emerged as the top goalscorer, claiming the Golden Boot award. He also received the prestigious Golden Ball, recognizing him as the tournament's best player. Additionally, his stunning long-range volley against Germany in the third-place play-off earned him the accolade for the goal of the tournament.

While Forlan had notable stints with Manchester United and a season at Inter, it was in Spain, particularly with Villarreal and Atletico Madrid, where he made the most significant impact. He secured the European Golden Shoe, awarded to the top scorer in Europe's major leagues, twice. The first time was in his debut season at Villarreal in 2004/05, and he repeated the feat in 2008/09 while representing Atletico Madrid.

7. Enzo Francescoli

Career span: 1980-1997

Enzo Francescoli, known as El Principe (The Prince), is revered as one of the most talented playmakers of his generation. He spent the majority of his career with the Argentinian club River Plate, where his performances were nothing short of exceptional. In fact, after just one full season with the club, he was named the 1984 South American Footballer of the Year.

Francescoli, who has Italian and Basque heritage, played a crucial role in Uruguay's Copa America victories in 1983, 1987, and 1995. He was awarded the Player of the Tournament title in the first and last of those triumphant Copa America campaigns. Renowned for his technical skills and creativity, Francescoli earned 73 appearances for his national team, making him, at the time of his retirement, Uruguay's most capped outfield player.

Following his successful tenure with River Plate, Francescoli embarked on a new chapter in France, representing RC Paris and later Marseille. He claimed the French first division title in the 1989/90 season with Marseille and was honored as France's Foreign Player of the Year. Subsequently, he ventured to Italy, playing for Cagliari and Torino before returning to his beloved River Plate to conclude his illustrious career.

6. Jose Nasazzi

Career span: 1918-1937

Jose Nasazzi is an iconic figure in the history of football, forever etched in the annals of the sport. As the captain of the Uruguayan national team, he achieved a monumental feat by being the first person to lift the Jules Rimet Trophy at the inaugural World Cup in 1930. Known as El Gran Mariscal (The Grand Marshal), Nasazzi's leadership and skill were instrumental in Uruguay's success. He was also recognized as the tournament's best player as Uruguay triumphed over Yugoslavia in the semi-finals and then emerged victorious in a thrilling final against neighboring Argentina.

Beyond the World Cup glory, Nasazzi experienced success in other prestigious tournaments. He secured gold medals at the 1924 and 1928 Olympic Games, showcasing Uruguay's dominance in international football during that era. Additionally, Nasazzi claimed victory in the South American Championships (now known as the Copa America) on four occasions, further solidifying his status as a legendary figure in the sport. Born in Montevideo, Nasazzi's contributions to Uruguayan football left an indelible mark on the nation's sporting history.

5. Obdulio Varela

Career span: 1936-1955

Obdulio Varela, a legendary figure in football, is widely regarded as one of the first great traditional holding midfielders. While he represented Montevideo Wanderers and Penarol at the club level, it is his accomplishments on the international stage that truly define his legacy.

Varela's career with the Uruguayan national team spanned over 15 years, but it was in 1950 that he had his defining moment. Regarded as Uruguay's great leader, Varela played a pivotal role in orchestrating one of the most remarkable upsets in football history, famously known as the "Maracanazo." In the final against Brazil at the packed Maracana Stadium, after Brazil scored the opening goal, Varela intentionally walked slowly to his goal, picked up the ball, and engaged in a deliberate argument with the referee about a non-existent offside call. His intention was to allow the crowd to calm down and for his teammates to regain composure. Uruguay eventually completed a stunning comeback, and Varela lifted the World Cup as the captain.

He also participated in the following World Cup in 1954, aiming to retain the prestigious trophy. Although Uruguay defeated England in the quarter-finals, Varela unfortunately injured himself during the celebrations, preventing him from playing in the subsequent semi-final against Hungary. Uruguay lost that match, but Varela's remarkable record remained intact as he never experienced a defeat in a World Cup match.

Obdulio Varela's legacy as a leader and influential figure in Uruguayan football remains cherished, particularly for his instrumental role in the historic 1950 World Cup victory.

4. Jose Leandro Andrade

Career span: 1921-1934

Jose Leandro Andrade, an iconic member of Uruguay's inaugural World Cup-winning team in 1930, is celebrated as one of the finest players of his time. Despite being in decline and partially blind in one eye due to a collision with a goal post, Andrade's contributions to the team earned him recognition as the third-best player of the tournament, receiving the Bronze Ball award.

During the early and mid-1920s, Andrade was widely regarded as one of the world's premier players. He showcased his exceptional skills as a dynamic wing-half. Andrade's success extended beyond the World Cup, as he was part of the Uruguay team that clinched the South American Championship in 1923, 1924, and 1926. He was affectionately nicknamed the "Black Pearl" and holds the distinction of being the first black international footballer to feature in an Olympic Games. He won two consecutive Olympic Gold medals, with his participation in the 1924 edition marking a significant milestone.

At the club level, Andrade spent six years with Nacional, where he achieved remarkable success. During his tenure, Nacional secured four Uruguayan Championships and three national cups. In 1930, he transferred to Penarol, further adding to his illustrious career.

Jose Leandro Andrade's legacy as a skilled and trailblazing footballer remains deeply influential, particularly for his contributions to Uruguay's historic World Cup victory and his significant achievements at both the international and club levels.

3. Hector Scarone

Career span: 1917-1939

Hector Scarone, nicknamed El Magi (The Magician), was indeed the star of Uruguay's historic 1930 World Cup triumph. He earned his moniker for good reason, as his exceptional talent and skill on the field mesmerized spectators and opponents alike.

Scarone's football prowess was evident from a young age, as he scored the only goal of the South American Championship in 1917 when he was just 19 years old. He went on to win the tournament three more times, solidifying his status as a key figure in Uruguay's success. Additionally, Scarone secured Olympic gold medals at the 1924 and 1928 games before ultimately experiencing the pinnacle of World Cup glory in 1930.

While Scarone's international achievements were remarkable, his club career was equally distinguished. He spent the majority of his playing days at Nacional, where he enjoyed a successful 20-year tenure. His loyalty to the club resulted in him holding the record for the longest period spent at Nacional. Scarone is also the second-highest scorer in the club's history and ranks as the third-highest scorer in the Uruguayan Primera Division.

In addition to his time with Nacional, Scarone had brief stints in Italy with Inter and Palermo, as well as in Spain with Barcelona. Later in his life, he even managed Nacional's arch-rivals, Real Madrid, showcasing his versatility and knowledge of the game.

Hector Scarone's legacy as one of the finest players of his generation, his crucial role in Uruguay's World Cup victory, and his achievements at both the international and club levels have solidified his place among football's greats.

2. Luis Suarez

Career span: 2005-

Luis Suarez, a polarizing yet undeniably talented footballer, possesses a blend of magic and power that makes him a force to be reckoned with on the biggest stages.

Suarez's rise to prominence began in the Netherlands, where he made a name for himself with Groningen and then gained further recognition during his time at Ajax. His explosive performances showcased his immense skills and propelled him to the attention of clubs across Europe.

In 2011, Suarez made a high-profile move to Liverpool in the English Premier League. During his time with the Reds, he reached new heights and established himself as one of the elite players in world football. His goal-scoring prowess, technical abilities, and relentless determination made him a formidable opponent for any defense.

Following his successful stint in England, Suarez embarked on a prestigious and prolific career in Spain. He joined Barcelona, where he formed a remarkable attacking trio alongside Lionel Messi and Neymar, collectively known as MSN. Their partnership became one of the most feared and admired attacking forces in football history, wreaking havoc on opposing defenses and securing numerous titles for Barcelona.

After his time at Barcelona, Suarez joined Atletico Madrid, where he continued to make a significant impact. In his first season with the club, he played a vital role in helping Atletico Madrid clinch the La Liga title, further solidifying his reputation as a winner.

While opinions on Suarez may vary, there is no denying his ability to perform at the highest level and his knack for producing moments of magic with his right foot. His career has been filled with remarkable achievements and noteworthy contributions to the clubs he has represented.

After his time in Spain, Suarez had brief stints in South America, starting with a return to his boyhood club, Nacional. He then moved to Gremio before reuniting with his former teammate Lionel Messi at Inter Miami in the United States.

Representing Uruguay, Suarez, also known as El Pistolero (The Gunman), achieved notable success. In 2011, he played a pivotal role in Uruguay's triumph in the Copa America, lifting the trophy and earning the prestigious Player of the Tournament award. In 2013, he surpassed Diego Forlan to become Uruguay's all-time leading goalscorer, cementing his place in his nation's football history.

1. Juan Alberto Schiaffino

Career span: 1943-1962

Juan Alberto Schiaffino, widely regarded as Uruguay's greatest-ever player, holds a prominent place in football history. He is particularly remembered for his significant contributions to Uruguay's success in the 1950 World Cup and his influential role as a playmaker.

Schiaffino's defining moment came in the infamous 1950 World Cup final, where he scored the equalizing goal for Uruguay against Brazil. This goal played a crucial part in Uruguay's stunning comeback victory, known as the "Maracanazo." Schiaffino's skill and vision as a playmaker were instrumental in Uruguay's impressive run in the 1954 World Cup as well.

Beginning his career as a willowy inside-forward, Schiaffino emerged through the ranks of Penarol, his boyhood club. He spent eleven successful years with Penarol, winning the Uruguayan Primera Division on three occasions. In 1954, he made a high-profile move to AC Milan, becoming the subject of a then-world record fee. At Milan, Schiaffino transformed into one of the first great deep-lying playmakers. He formed a formidable partnership with iconic players such as Nils Liedholm, Lorenzo Buffon, and Cesare Maldini.

During his time at Milan, Schiaffino achieved notable success, winning three Italian championships and reaching the final of the 1958 European Cup. Although they narrowly lost to Real Madrid after extra time, Schiaffino's presence and influence were vital in Milan's impressive campaign.

Juan Alberto Schiaffino's legacy as Uruguay's greatest player is firmly established through his performances in World Cups, his role as a playmaker, and his achievements at both the club and international levels. His remarkable skills and contributions have earned him a place among the footballing legends of his era.