Franz Beckenbauer vs Frank Rijkaard
Germany against Netherlands. 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).
Frank Rijkaard
Netherlands · 1980s · CB
- Almanac rating
- 93
- Rank in Netherlands
- #4 of 33
- Caps
- 73 · 10 goals
- Clubs
- AFC Ajax, Real Zaragoza, AC Milan
- Honours
- national Player of the Year 1995
An elegant yet imposing figure, Rijkaard was a defensive lynchpin for both AC Milan and Ajax, winning the Euros in 1988 and dominating as a centre-back or defensive midfielder. Career record: 73 caps and 10 goals for Netherlands; club career at AFC Ajax, Real Zaragoza, AC Milan; honours include national Player of the Year 1995.
The verdict
The almanac puts Franz Beckenbauer ahead by 5 rating points, 98 against 93.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.