Djalma Santos vs Wim Suurbier
Brazil against Netherlands. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Djalma Santos
Brazil · 1952–68 · RB
- Almanac rating
- 92
- Rank in Brazil
- #14 of 33
- Caps
- 98 · 3 goals
- Clubs
- Associação Portuguesa de Desportos, Sociedade Esportiva Palmeiras, Club Athletico Paranaense
The 1962 final in Santiago turned on his lofted cross from the right, which goalkeeper Viliam Schrojf misjudged, letting Vavá head in Brazil's third. Two World Cups came his way, in 1958 and 1962, plus selection to three World Cup All-Star teams, a distinction shared only with Franz Beckenbauer, 98 caps for Brazil, two Brazilian championships with Palmeiras, and not a single sending-off. Career record: 98 caps and 3 goals for Brazil; club career at Associação Portuguesa de Desportos, Sociedade Esportiva Palmeiras, Club Athletico Paranaense.
Wim Suurbier
Netherlands · 1974–78 · RB
- Almanac rating
- 89
- Rank in Netherlands
- #19 of 33
- Caps
- 60 · 3 goals
- Clubs
- AFC Ajax, FC Metz, Los Angeles Aztecs
A marauding full-back in Ajax's 'Total Football' dynasty, he played in both the 1974 and 1978 World Cup finals. Career record: 60 caps and 3 goals for Netherlands; club career at AFC Ajax, FC Metz, Los Angeles Aztecs.
The verdict
The almanac puts Djalma Santos ahead by 3 rating points, 92 against 89.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.