Elías Figueroa vs Pepe
Chile against Portugal. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Elías Figueroa
Chile · 1974–78 · CB
- Almanac rating
- 92
- Rank in Chile
- #1 of 33
- Caps
- 47 · 2 goals
- Clubs
- Club Atlético Peñarol, S.C. Internacional, C.D. Palestino
On 14 December 1975 at the Beira-Rio, sunlight broke through the cloud as he rose above Cruzeiro's defenders to head in Valdomiro's cross, the only goal of the final and the one Brazilians call the Gol Iluminado. South American Footballer of the Year in 1974, 1975 and 1976, he won Brazilian championships in 1975 and 1976, Uruguayan titles with Peñarol, the Chilean league with Palestino in 1978, and a place in the 1974 World Cup all-star team. Career record: 47 caps and 2 goals for Chile; club career at Club Atlético Peñarol, S.C. Internacional, C.D. Palestino.
Pepe
Portugal · 2010s · CB
- Almanac rating
- 91
- Rank in Portugal
- #6 of 33
- Caps
- 141 · 8 goals
- Clubs
- C.S. Marítimo, FC Porto, Real Madrid Club de Fútbol
- Honours
- Hall of Fame
A warrior at the heart of the defence, known for his aggressive style, leadership, and crucial role in Portugal's Euro 2016 victory and Real Madrid's multiple Champions League successes. Career record: 141 caps and 8 goals for Portugal; club career at C.S. Marítimo, FC Porto, Real Madrid Club de Fútbol; honours include Hall of Fame.
The verdict
The almanac puts Elías Figueroa ahead by 1 rating point, 92 against 91.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.