Romário vs Franco Baresi
Brazil against Italy. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Romário
Brazil · 1989–97 · ST
- Almanac rating
- 95
- Rank in Brazil
- #5 of 33
- Caps
- 70 · 55 goals
- Clubs
- CR Vasco da Gama, PSV Eindhoven, Fluminense
- Honours
- FIFA World Player of the Year 1994
In the Clásico of 8 January 1994 he dragged the ball a full turn around his marker, the move Spain calls the cola de vaca, and finished; two more goals followed in a 5-0 win over Real Madrid. Five goals and the Golden Ball won Brazil the 1994 World Cup, and he was FIFA's world player that year, top scorer in La Liga with 30 goals in the title season, and a Copa América winner in 1989 and 1997. Career record: 70 caps and 55 goals for Brazil; club career at CR Vasco da Gama, PSV Eindhoven, Fluminense; honours include FIFA World Player of the Year 1994.
Franco Baresi
Italy · 1977–97 · CB
- Almanac rating
- 96
- Rank in Italy
- #1 of 33
- Caps
- 81 · 1 goals
- Clubs
- AC Milan
- Honours
- Hall of Fame 1991
Il Capitano, a balletic yet formidable defender, marshalled AC Milan and Italy with unmatched elegance and leadership, securing numerous Serie A and Champions League titles. Career record: 81 caps and 1 goals for Italy; club career at AC Milan; honours include Hall of Fame 1991.
The verdict
The almanac puts Franco Baresi ahead by 1 rating point, 96 against 95.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.