France against Sweden. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
France · 1997–2010 · SS
With his back to goal at Highbury on 1 October 2000, Denis Irwin tight behind him, he flicked the ball up, spun and volleyed it over Fabien Barthez in one motion. France won the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000 with him in the side, Barcelona the 2009 Champions League, and he took two league titles at Arsenal, including the unbeaten season of 2003/04, leaving as their record scorer on 228 goals. Career record: 123 caps and 51 goals for France; club career at AS Monaco, Arsenal, New York Red Bulls; honours include European Golden Shoe 2004, Golden Boot 2002, 2× national Player of the Year (2003–2003).
Sweden · SS
The audacious Swede redefined what was possible with his acrobatic goals and unparalleled confidence, dominating top leagues across Europe for decades. Career record: 122 caps and 62 goals for Sweden; club career at AFC Ajax, Inter Milan, Paris Saint-Germain; honours include Golden Foot 2012, 2× national Player of the Year (2005–2008).
The almanac cannot separate them: both are rated 94.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.