Lionel Messi vs Dino Zoff
Argentina against Italy. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Lionel Messi
Argentina · 2021–24 · RM
- Almanac rating
- 99
- Rank in Argentina
- #2 of 33
- Caps
- 207 · 125 goals
- Clubs
- Newell's Old Boys, FC Barcelona, Inter Miami CF
- Honours
- 2× Ballon d'Or (2009–2010) · FIFA World Player of the Year 2009 · The Best FIFA award 2019
Lusail, 18 December 2022: he scored twice in a final that ended 3-3, then buried the first penalty of a shootout Argentina won 4-2. The trophy cabinet runs from the 2022 World Cup and a second Golden Ball through the Copa América of 2021 and 2024 to eight Ballon d'Or awards, four Champions Leagues, ten La Liga titles and 672 goals for Barcelona. Career record: 207 caps and 125 goals for Argentina; club career at Newell's Old Boys, FC Barcelona, Inter Miami CF; honours include 2× Ballon d'Or (2009–2010), FIFA World Player of the Year 2009, The Best FIFA award 2019.
Dino Zoff
Italy · 1980s · GK
- Almanac rating
- 95
- Rank in Italy
- #4 of 33
- Caps
- 112 · 84 goals
- Clubs
- Mantova 1911, SSC Napoli, Juventus
- Honours
- 2× Hall of Fame (1982–2000)
The oldest player to win a World Cup, his steadfast presence between the posts led Italy to glory in 1982. Career record: 112 caps and 84 goals for Italy; club career at Mantova 1911, SSC Napoli, Juventus; honours include 2× Hall of Fame (1982–2000).
The verdict
The almanac puts Lionel Messi ahead by 4 rating points, 99 against 95.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.