Pelé scored over 1,200 career goals, and a significant number of them came from 12 yards. The Brazilian was as composed from the penalty spot as he was brilliant with the ball at his feet.
His technique was classic: power, placement and a composure that did not waver. He scored penalties in World Cup matches and in Brazilian league deciders, and when he stepped up, few people in the ground expected anything other than a goal.
How does Pelé rank only tenth?
Because this list is about penalties, and on penalties alone the competition is fierce. On everything else the argument is thin. He won 3 World Cups with Brazil, in 1958, 1962 and 1970, and is still the only player in history to do so. FIFA named him Player of the Century, an honour shared with Maradona.
Many people consider him the finest footballer who ever lived, and his record from the spot was close to flawless. For a long time the King ruled the game.
He takes number 10 in our countdown.
Tomorrow we are down to number 9.
