Nílton Santos vs Ashley Cole
Brazil against England. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Nílton Santos
Brazil · 1949–58 · LB
- Almanac rating
- 93
- Rank in Brazil
- #11 of 33
- Caps
- 75 · 3 goals
- Clubs
- Botafogo F.R.
Against Austria on 8 June 1958 he carried the ball out of his own half with Feola screaming at him to get back, ignored him all the way, and scored the second in a 3-0 win in Brazil's opening match. He won that World Cup and the next one in Chile, added the 1949 South American title, made the 1958 all-star eleven, won four Carioca championships and never once played for a club other than Botafogo. Career record: 75 caps and 3 goals for Brazil; club career at Botafogo F.R..
Ashley Cole
England · 1999–2014 · LB
- Almanac rating
- 89
- Rank in England
- #20 of 33
- Caps
- 107 · 0 goals
- Clubs
- Arsenal, Chelsea, LA Galaxy
- Honours
- Hall of Fame 2024
Widely considered the finest left-back of his generation, his relentless attacking drive and superb defending earned him Champions League glory with both Arsenal and Chelsea. Career record: 107 caps and 0 goals for England; club career at Arsenal, Chelsea, LA Galaxy; honours include Hall of Fame 2024.
The verdict
The almanac puts Nílton Santos ahead by 4 rating points, 93 against 89.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.