# Who is the best North American defender in football history?

> Composed ball-players and rugged stoppers from Mexico and the USA stake their claim. Who defended best?

*By YPB Team · Published May 26, 2026 · https://youpick.best/ranking/who-is-the-best-north-american-defender-in-football-history*

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## Current results (no votes yet)

1. **Rafael Marquez**
   Mexican captain and elegant ball-playing defender with Barcelona pedigree.
2. **Claudio Suarez**
   El Emperador, Mexico's record cap holder and a dependable centre-back.
3. **Carlos Salcido**
   Versatile Mexican defender comfortable across the back line.
4. **Marcelo Balboa**
   Pioneering USA centre-back famed for his bicycle kicks.
5. **Eddie Pope**
   Composed USA centre-back and three-time World Cup participant.
6. **Carlos Bocanegra**
   USA captain and reliable centre-back of the 2000s and 2010s.
7. **Oguchi Onyewu**
   Powerful, physically imposing USA centre-back.
8. **Hector Moreno**
   Reliable Mexican centre-back with extensive European experience.
9. **Steve Cherundolo**
   Dependable USA right-back and long-serving Bundesliga performer.
10. **DaMarcus Beasley**
   Versatile USA player and the first American to play in four World Cups.
11. **John Brooks**
   USA centre-back remembered for his late winner at the 2014 World Cup.
12. **Diego Reyes**
   Mexican defender comfortable at centre-back or in midfield.
13. **Cesar Montes**
   Modern Mexican centre-back known for his aerial strength.

Tags: football, players, north america, defenders