Lev Yashin — Soviet Union 1958–1966

Lev Yashin remains the only goalkeeper ever to win the Ballon d'Or (1963), a feat that underscores his revolutionary impact on the position. He dominated three World Cups, pioneering modern sweep-keeper tactics by commanding his penalty area and organizing defenders — a style adopted by 70% of top keepers today. Yashin's 270 career clean sheets in 812 matches are 40% more than #4 Gianluigi Buffon's 188 in 656 games, reflecting his unmatched longevity and influence as the Soviet Union's last line for 20 years.