Alfredo Di Stéfano vs Franz Beckenbauer
Spain against Germany. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Alfredo Di Stéfano
Spain · 1945–66 · ST
- Almanac rating
- 98
- Rank in Spain
- #1 of 33
- Caps
- 31 · 23 goals
- Clubs
- Millonarios, Real Madrid Club de Fútbol, RCD Espanyol de Barcelona
- Honours
- 2× Ballon d'Or (1957–1959) · 2× Hall of Fame
A true visionary, the iconic Argentine-born forward transformed Real Madrid into a European powerhouse, winning five consecutive European Cups. Career record: 31 caps and 23 goals for Spain; club career at Millonarios, Real Madrid Club de Fútbol, RCD Espanyol de Barcelona; honours include 2× Ballon d'Or (1957–1959), 2× Hall of Fame.
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 cannot separate them: both are rated 98.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.