Jairzinho vs Arjen Robben
Brazil against Netherlands. 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.
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 Jairzinho ahead by 1 rating point, 92 against 91.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.