Franz Beckenbauer vs Fabio Cannavaro
Germany against Italy. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
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).
Fabio Cannavaro
Italy · 2000s · CB
- Almanac rating
- 95
- Rank in Italy
- #5 of 33
- Caps
- 136 · 2 goals
- Clubs
- Parma Calcio 1913, Juventus, Real Madrid Club de Fútbol
- Honours
- Ballon d'Or 2006 · FIFA World Player of the Year 2006 · 2× Hall of Fame (2000–2006)
The inspirational captain who hoisted the 2006 World Cup, his defensive masterclass earned him the Ballon d'Or that same year. Career record: 136 caps and 2 goals for Italy; club career at Parma Calcio 1913, Juventus, Real Madrid Club de Fútbol; honours include Ballon d'Or 2006, FIFA World Player of the Year 2006, 2× Hall of Fame (2000–2006).
The verdict
The almanac puts Franz Beckenbauer ahead by 3 rating points, 98 against 95.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.