Sócrates vs Bobby Charlton
Brazil against England. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Sócrates
Brazil · 1982–83 · CM
- Almanac rating
- 93
- Rank in Brazil
- #12 of 33
- Caps
- 60 · 22 goals
- Clubs
- Botafogo Futebol Clube, S.C. Corinthians Paulista, ACF Fiorentina
Corinthians carried a banner onto the pitch in 1983 reading "Win or lose, but always with democracy", the work of their captain, who had the squad voting on its own decisions while Brazil was still run by generals. He captained the 1982 side in Spain, was voted South American Footballer of the Year in 1983, won three Paulista titles with Corinthians, scored 22 goals in 60 games for Brazil, and qualified as a doctor before he turned professional. Career record: 60 caps and 22 goals for Brazil; club career at Botafogo Futebol Clube, S.C. Corinthians Paulista, ACF Fiorentina.
Bobby Charlton
England · 1956–73 · CM
- Almanac rating
- 95
- Rank in England
- #1 of 33
- Caps
- 106 · 49 goals
- Clubs
- English Schools' Football Association, Preston North End, Melbourne Victory
- Honours
- Ballon d'Or 1966 · 2× Hall of Fame (1969–1974)
A true footballing icon, the Ballon d'Or winner and World Cup champion’s thunderous long-range strikes and humble leadership defined an era for Manchester United and England. Career record: 106 caps and 49 goals for England; club career at English Schools' Football Association, Preston North End, Melbourne Victory; honours include Ballon d'Or 1966, 2× Hall of Fame (1969–1974).
The verdict
The almanac puts Bobby Charlton ahead by 2 rating points, 95 against 93.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.