There are some wonderful defensive talents on show at the 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany™ - with the likes of Roberto Ayala, Alessandro Nesta, John Terry to name but three. But the best defender in the group games was actually a forward player converted to play as a deep-lying midfielder.

For years Dwight Yorke was reknowned for his striking ability and consistent marksmanship. At the FIFA World Cup, used effectively by Trinidad and Tobago in a defensive midfield role, he topped the rankings in terms of successful tackles made.

In 270 minutes with T&T, Yorke made 21 tackles – and also had 15 tackles made upon him, far more than any other 'defending' player in the first three games. Second best was Ukraine's Anatoliy Tymoschuk with 19 successful tackles made in 270 minutes. Tunisia central defender Radhi Jaidi and Michael Umana of Costa Rica were next best with 18 tackles. Further down the list came Croatia's Igor Tudor and Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro, both with 15 successful tackles.