Zico vs Franz Beckenbauer
Brazil against Germany. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Zico
Brazil · 1976–86 · CAM
- Almanac rating
- 95
- Rank in Brazil
- #6 of 33
Liverpool came to Tokyo as European champions on 13 December 1981 and went in three down at half-time, two of the goals laid on for Nunes by the man who ran the game from just behind him. That win completed Flamengo's 1981 double with the Copa Libertadores, and he added four Brazilian championships, South American Footballer of the Year in 1977, 1981 and 1982, World Soccer's player of the year in 1983, and 508 goals for the club.
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 3 rating points, 98 against 95.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.