TOP 10 VETERANS TO WATCH

The World Cup isn't just for youngsters to make a name for themselves, but also for aging stars who want to remind fans that they still have plenty to offer. These 10 veterans will be playing in their last World Cup in Germany and want to go out as champions:

1) Zinedine Zidane (France): It's no coincidence that after Zidane came out of international retirement that France got its act together and won its group to qualify for the World Cup. Without him, Les Bleus would be lost. Zidane, who turns 34 on June 23, is the spark that drives the French attack, a midfield maestro whose inventiveness and creativity on the field reeks of genius. Set to retire at the end of the tournament, Zidane will be looking to go out on a winning note.

2) Luis Figo (Portugal): Figo retired from the national team in 2004 but came back last year to help Portugal qualify for the World Cup. After a disappointing end to his career with Real Madrid in 2005, the 33-year-old moved to Inter Milan last year and enjoyed one his best seasons in recent memory, playing with the youthful vigour of someone 10 years younger. Even though he's slowed down a bit, Figo is still blessed with a wide array of attributes: superb dribbling, a rocket for a shot and visionary passing skills.

3) Cafu (Brazil): He's already won two World Cups and a slew of trophies in his long career but Brazilian defender Cafu can't quit just yet because he has the game in his blood. You wouldn't know by the way he makes his trademark dashing runs up and down the flank that he's 35 - set to turn 36 on June 7. Truly, a one-of-a-kind player.

4) Sammy Kuffour (Ghana): One of the most respected African players of his era. Kuffour first won critical acclaim by helping Ghana with a bronze medal at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. Form there, the tough-tackling defender won more plaudits during his successful tenure with German club Bayern Munich. After quitting the national team, Kuffour returned to help the Black Stars qualify for their first World Cup.

5) Sami Al-Jaber (Saudi Arabia): The heart and soul of Saudi Arabia's national team. The 33-year-old striker has played in the last three World Cups, but retired from the national side in 2002. He came out of retirement to help Saudi Arabia qualify this time around and is anxious to show the world he still has plenty of talent.

6) Ali Daei (Iran): A legend in Iranian soccer. Many critics say the 36-year-old team captain is past his prime, but the striker demonstrated he still has a lot to offer by leading all scorers in Asian qualifying with nine goals.

7) Pavel Nedved (Czech Republic): The Juventus star is an industrious midfielder and brilliant playmaker that can totally dictate the pace of a game. Posing a real presence on the field with his physical style and never-say-die attitude, Nedved, 33, is the heart and soul of the Czech team, an inspirational leader. Skill, vision and a blistering shot, Nedved has it all, including an unequalled work ethic.

8) Paulo Wanchope (Costa Rica): Costa Rica's all-time leading scorer, Wanchope is set to retire from the national team after the World Cup. He is a gifted striker who is slight of foot and is very agile, but he has been plagued by knee problems the last few years, leaving him with a point to prove in Germany.

9) Alessandro Del Piero (Italy): An icon at Juventus who has never quite been able to duplicate his club form for his country, Del Piero is a forward of impeccable class. The 31-year-old Italian scores highlight reel goals, sets up teammates with scoring chances and is expert on beating defenders one-on-one. After a few lacklustre seasons, Del Piero enjoyed a renaissance this past year and will be looking to help the Azzurri win their first World Cup in 24 years in Germany.

10) Claudio Reyna (United States): The 32-year-old team captain is perhaps the most important member of the U.S. squad, as he is able to dictate the pace of a game with his subtle ball control. This will be his fourth World Cup, so he has lots of experience and provides the U.S. with valuable leadership on the field. He never loses his cool and maintains possession even when he's under pressure.