Nílton Santos vs Paolo Maldini
Brazil against Italy. 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..
Paolo Maldini
Italy · 1985–2009 · LB
- Almanac rating
- 96
- Rank in Italy
- #3 of 33
- Caps
- 126 · 976 goals
- Clubs
- AC Milan
- Honours
- 2× Hall of Fame (1991–2000)
One of the greatest defenders of all time, 'Il Capitano' won five Champions League titles with AC Milan and was an icon of Italian football for over two decades. Career record: 126 caps and 976 goals for Italy; club career at AC Milan; honours include 2× Hall of Fame (1991–2000).
The verdict
The almanac puts Paolo Maldini ahead by 3 rating points, 96 against 93.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.