Ronaldo Nazário vs Paolo Maldini
Brazil against Italy. 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.
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 cannot separate them: both are rated 96.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.