China against China. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
China · 1995–2002 · CB
Shanghai Shenhua used their centre-back as a stand-in striker in 1995 and he ended the year as the Chinese league's top scorer on fifteen goals, and in 1998 he and Sun Jihai became the first Chinese footballers in England. Asian Footballer of the Year in 2001, the first Chinese winner, three times Chinese Player of the Year, a league title and FA Cup with Shanghai Shenhua, 106 caps with 17 goals, and China's one World Cup, in 2002. Career record: 106 caps and 17 goals for China; club career at Shanghai Shenhua, Crystal Palace, Shanghai United.
China · 1981–87 · CB
The 1984 Asian Cup ended with China beaten 2-0 by Saudi Arabia in the final and their centre-back walking off as both joint top scorer, on three goals, and most valuable player of the tournament. Two Chinese league titles with Bayi in 1981 and 1986, China's Golden Ball in 1983, 1984 and 1986, 55 caps with the armband from 1987, and firsts for a Chinese player in both the UEFA Cup and the J.League. Career record: 55 caps and 9 goals for China; club career at Bayi Football Team, FK Partizan, Gamba Osaka.
The almanac puts Fan Zhiyi ahead by 3 rating points, 83 against 80.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.