Lucas Neil (Australia)
Lucas Neil took the captain position of the Socceroos in 2006 and 2010 World Cup tournaments and is also the team’s longest-serving captain, having worn the armband on 61 occasions. The classy and versatile defender was arguably the Socceroos’ best in the defending line, helping his side compete against word’s elites such as Germany, Brazil and Croatia.
His infamous tackle on Italy’s Fabio Grosso in 2006 is one of the most controversial moments of Australia in World Cups, but he handled the iconic moment with dignity throughout the ordeal. Francesco Totti then converted the ensuing penalty kick to score and give the Italians a 1–0 victory, knocking Australia out of the cup.
