33·Legends

Ronaldo Nazário vs Xavi

Brazil against Spain. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.

RN

Ronaldo Nazário

Brazil · 1997–2002 · ST

Almanac rating
96
Rank in Brazil
#4 of 33
Caps
98 · 62 goals
Clubs
Inter Milan, Real Madrid Club de Fútbol, S.C. Corinthians Paulista
Honours
Ballon d'Or 1997 · FIFA World Player of the Year 1996 · Golden Foot 2006

Kahn had barely conceded all tournament when he spilled Rivaldo's shot in Yokohama on 30 June 2002, and Ronaldo, two knee ruptures behind him, tucked in the rebound before adding a second twelve minutes later. That win came with eight goals, the Golden Boot and a second Ballon d'Or after 1997, and he also took the Copa América in 1997 and 1999, the UEFA Cup with Inter in 1998 and a then record 15 World Cup goals. Career record: 98 caps and 62 goals for Brazil; club career at Inter Milan, Real Madrid Club de Fútbol, S.C. Corinthians Paulista; honours include Ballon d'Or 1997, FIFA World Player of the Year 1996, Golden Foot 2006.

vs
X

Xavi

Spain · 1998–2019 · CM

Almanac rating
95
Rank in Spain
#3 of 33

The beating heart of Tiki-Taka, Xavi was a midfield visionary whose unparalleled passing and tactical intelligence drove Spain to World Cup and two European Championships.

The verdict

The almanac puts Ronaldo Nazário ahead by 1 rating point, 96 against 95.

Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.

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