Ronaldo Nazário vs Franz Beckenbauer
Brazil against Germany. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
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.
Franz Beckenbauer
Germany · 1970s · CB
- Almanac rating
- 98
- Rank in Germany
- #1 of 33
- Caps
- 103 · 14 goals
- Clubs
- FC Bayern Munich, New York Cosmos, Hamburger SV
- Honours
- Ballon d'Or · 4× national Player of the Year (1966–1976) · 7× Hall of Fame (1976–2018)
The iconic "Der Kaiser," Beckenbauer redefined the libero role, winning the 1974 World Cup as captain and two Ballon d'Or awards for his elegant play. Career record: 103 caps and 14 goals for Germany; club career at FC Bayern Munich, New York Cosmos, Hamburger SV; honours include Ballon d'Or, 4× national Player of the Year (1966–1976), 7× Hall of Fame (1976–2018).
The verdict
The almanac puts Franz Beckenbauer ahead by 2 rating points, 98 against 96.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.