Every man needs a partner, even on the pitch

The classic 4-4-2 formation is a thing of the past. Ever since the Dutch came up with "Total football" during the 70's, teams have been playing in all sorts of formations. Now, the most prominent formations include one striker with maybe two wingers or a supporting striker behind the main center forward. These are adopted by most of the big and successful clubs such as Barcelona, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Chelsea. Nowadays there is a lot of stress on the midfield and teams like to solidify that area for more protection. How often do we see Benzema and Higuain play together for Madrid? I have rarely seen it. Despite this some teams still deploy two strikers side by side and the combination of two strikers can prove to be lethal and menacing.

The greatest strike partnership the premier league has ever seen existed between Andy Cole and Dwight Yorke when they played for Manchester United in the late 90's. It was often termed as "Black Magic" and it was truly magical. A telepathic connection existed between the two as if they shared the same mind. Both were equally good in quality and experience, Yorke having played for Aston Villa, Cole having played for Newcastle. They scored a total of 140 goals for Man Utd and led them to several triumphs including the 1999 league, cup and champions league treble. A particular goal against Barcelona at the Nou Camp is a perfect example of how good their combination was. The Barca defense had no idea what was going on, as simple as that. Here it is enjoy!!

Andy Cole and Dwight Yorke combining to score for Manchester United against Barcelona

Ronaldo and Rivaldo formed a formidable partnership for Brazil during the 1998 and 2002 world cups. Although Rivaldo often played in attacking midfield, his role can be considered that of a striker. Faltering to France in the 98 final, Brazil were in merciless mood during the 2002 world cup. They were relentless with their scoring. The two players scored a total of 18 goals between them in the tournament, a staggering stat. In the final, Ronaldo scored past the legendary Oliver Kahn twice with Rivaldo virtually providing both the assists. Two of Brazil's greatest players playing in the same team was wonderful to watch. Unfortunately Rivaldo lost favor with the national team a bit after the world cup and eventually lost his place. 

Rivaldo and Ronaldo during training for Brazil.

Speaking of legendary partnerships, one cannot leave out Raul and Fernando Morientes. Having won 3 champions leagues and 3 la liga titles together, they formed one of the most feared striking partnerships in Europe as well as in the international stage with Spain. But they could not transform their club success into international glory. Another great combination is Henry and Bergkamp for Arsenal in the early 2000's. Two geniuses playing side by side for Arsenal provided the fans with a treat. Henry's trickery and Bergkamp's technical ability blessed the premier league with a brand of attacking football never seen before. It was pivotal in Arsenal's unbeaten run of 49 games. The partnership of Alan Shearer and Chris Sutton for Blackburn in the mid nineties definitely deserves a mention. They helped Blackburn to the 1995 premier league title. Later Shearer moved on to achieve greater heights with Newcastle while Sutton played for Chelsea and Celtic. 

Raul and Morientes with the 1998 champions league trophy.

Finally we get to a more current partnership. Newcastle's Demba Ba and Papisse Cisse have provided us with a does of emaculate finishing. Cisse's brace against Chelsea was astounding, with one of them potentially the goal of the season. Even though Cisse was there for only half the season, this combination seems promising, especially with Newcastle's recent good form and decent players. The duo also play for the same national team, Senegal. Balotelli and Aguero also formed a strong combination for Man City. It was two contrasting styles, which is often a good recipe for attack. In the international level, the only good combination I can think of is Villa and Torres but that has been cut short due to frequent injuries to both players and Spain's adoption of 5 or even 6 midfielders in the team. 

Newcastle and Senegal duo Demba Ba and Papisse Cisse.

 So whether it be the classic 4-4-2 or the modified 4-1-2-1-2 diamond formation, the idea of two center forwards is a frightening one for defenders. Personally I prefer the latter since its more dynamic and consists of a defensive midfielder which is essential in today's game. These were a select few that I have come to see and appreciate during my time of watching football. I will sign of by mentioning one last pair, Marcelo Salas and Ivan Zamorano for Chile. They are an underrated pair who featured during the 98 world cup and performed well. 

Chile strike partners Marcelo Salas and Ivan Zamorano during the 98 World 

Cup.