Ashley Cole vs Jordi Alba
England against Spain. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Ashley Cole
England · 1999–2014 · LB
- Almanac rating
- 89
- Rank in England
- #20 of 33
- Caps
- 107 · 0 goals
- Clubs
- Arsenal, Chelsea, LA Galaxy
- Honours
- Hall of Fame 2024
Widely considered the finest left-back of his generation, his relentless attacking drive and superb defending earned him Champions League glory with both Arsenal and Chelsea. Career record: 107 caps and 0 goals for England; club career at Arsenal, Chelsea, LA Galaxy; honours include Hall of Fame 2024.
Jordi Alba
Spain · 2007–25 · LB
- Almanac rating
- 90
- Rank in Spain
- #13 of 33
- Caps
- 93 · 9 goals
- Clubs
- Valencia CF, FC Barcelona, Inter Miami CF
Spain's second goal in the Euro 2012 final was his: a break from halfway on 1 July, Xavi's pass taken in stride, the finish slid past Buffon in a 4-0 win over Italy. Alongside that Euro 2012 title he won the 2023 Nations League, the 2015 Champions League, six Spanish league titles and five Copas del Rey at Barcelona, then an MLS Cup with Inter Miami in his final match, December 2025. Career record: 93 caps and 9 goals for Spain; club career at Valencia CF, FC Barcelona, Inter Miami CF.
The verdict
The almanac puts Jordi Alba ahead by 1 rating point, 90 against 89.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.