Lionel Messi vs Arjen Robben
Argentina against Netherlands. 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.
Arjen Robben
Netherlands · 2010s · RM
- Almanac rating
- 91
- Rank in Netherlands
- #7 of 33
- Caps
- 96 · 37 goals
- Clubs
- PSV Eindhoven, Chelsea, FC Bayern Munich
- Honours
- 2× national Player of the Year (2010–2010)
The legendary Dutchman terrorised defences with his signature move, cutting in from the right wing to score spectacular goals, most notably the winner in the 2013 Champions League final for Bayern Munich. Career record: 96 caps and 37 goals for Netherlands; club career at PSV Eindhoven, Chelsea, FC Bayern Munich; honours include 2× national Player of the Year (2010–2010).
The verdict
The almanac puts Lionel Messi ahead by 8 rating points, 99 against 91.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.