 He was known for his calm and composed manner on the pitch, as well as his ability to read the game, preferring elegance and intelligence to physicality and aggression when defending; regarded as a correct player, known for his discipline on the pitch, he only received three red cards throughout his entire career.In a 2002 FIFA poll, Maldini was selected as a defender in the FIFA World Cup Dream Team.Maldini was the first defender ever shortlisted for the FIFA World Player of the Year award, finishing second in 1995.