Karim Benzema vs Michel Platini
France against France. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Karim Benzema
France · 2020s · SS
- Almanac rating
- 93
- Rank in France
- #4 of 33
- Caps
- 97 · 37 goals
- Clubs
- Olympique Lyonnais, Real Madrid Club de Fútbol, Al Ittihad
- Honours
- Ballon d'Or 2022 · national Player of the Year
A truly complete and elegant forward, this Real Madrid legend evolved into a talismanic figure, finally earning his well-deserved Ballon d'Or in 2022 after years of sublime performances. Career record: 97 caps and 37 goals for France; club career at Olympique Lyonnais, Real Madrid Club de Fútbol, Al Ittihad; honours include Ballon d'Or 2022, national Player of the Year.
Michel Platini
France · 1980s · CM
- Almanac rating
- 96
- Rank in France
- #2 of 33
- Caps
- 72 · 41 goals
- Clubs
- A.S. Nancy-Lorraine, AS Saint-Étienne, Juventus
- Honours
- 3× Ballon d'Or (1983–1985) · 4× Hall of Fame (1994–1994)
A three-time Ballon d'Or winner, this elegant playmaker orchestrated France's Euro 1984 triumph, netting nine goals in a single tournament – a record that still stands. Career record: 72 caps and 41 goals for France; club career at A.S. Nancy-Lorraine, AS Saint-Étienne, Juventus; honours include 3× Ballon d'Or (1983–1985), 4× Hall of Fame (1994–1994).
The verdict
The almanac puts Michel Platini ahead by 3 rating points, 96 against 93.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.