Jairzinho vs Tom Finney
Brazil against England. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Jairzinho
Brazil · 1968–76 · RM
- Almanac rating
- 92
- Rank in Brazil
- #15 of 33
- Clubs
- Olympique de Marseille, Kaizer Chiefs, C.D. Jorge Wilstermann
Six matches at Mexico 1970, six matches with his name on the scoresheet, including Brazil's third goal in the 4-1 final against Italy on 21 June: no one has done that at a World Cup before or since. He left the tournament with seven goals and a winner's medal, took the 1976 Copa Libertadores with Cruzeiro, and won the 1968 Brazilian championship and four Rio state titles with Botafogo. Career record: club career at Olympique de Marseille, Kaizer Chiefs, C.D. Jorge Wilstermann.
Tom Finney
England · 1946–60 · RM
- Almanac rating
- 91
- Rank in England
- #12 of 33
- Caps
- 76 · 30 goals
- Clubs
- Preston North End, Lisburn Distillery
- Honours
- Hall of Fame
A true pioneer on the wing, his pace and two-footed brilliance made him a constant threat for Preston North End and England throughout the 1940s and 50s. Career record: 76 caps and 30 goals for England; club career at Preston North End, Lisburn Distillery; honours include Hall of Fame.
The verdict
The almanac puts Jairzinho ahead by 1 rating point, 92 against 91.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.