Stanley Matthews vs Francisco Gento
England against Spain. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Stanley Matthews
England · 1950s · LM
- Almanac rating
- 92
- Rank in England
- #5 of 33
- Caps
- 54 · 11 goals
- Clubs
- Stoke City, The Football League XI, Blackpool
- Honours
- Ballon d'Or · 2× Hall of Fame
The original 'Wizard of the Dribble,' this legendary winger's mesmerizing footwork earned him the inaugural Ballon d'Or in 1956. Career record: 54 caps and 11 goals for England; club career at Stoke City, The Football League XI, Blackpool; honours include Ballon d'Or, 2× Hall of Fame.
Francisco Gento
Spain · 1952–71 · LM
- Almanac rating
- 91
- Rank in Spain
- #10 of 33
- Caps
- 43 · 5 goals
- Clubs
- Racing de Santander, Real Madrid Club de Fútbol, SD Unión Club
- Honours
- Hall of Fame
A genuine trailblazer on the left wing, Francisco Gento etched his name in history by winning an unprecedented six European Cups with the legendary Real Madrid side. Career record: 43 caps and 5 goals for Spain; club career at Racing de Santander, Real Madrid Club de Fútbol, SD Unión Club; honours include Hall of Fame.
The verdict
The almanac puts Stanley Matthews ahead by 1 rating point, 92 against 91.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.