Franz Beckenbauer vs Marco van Basten
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).
Marco van Basten
Netherlands · 1981–93 · ST
- Almanac rating
- 95
- Rank in Netherlands
- #2 of 33
- Caps
- 58 · 24 goals
- Clubs
- AFC Ajax, AC Milan
- Honours
- Ballon d'Or 1988 · FIFA World Player of the Year 1992
Widely considered one of the greatest strikers of all time, the three-time Ballon d'Or winner and Euro '88 champion was a phenomenon for AC Milan before his career was cut short by injury. Career record: 58 caps and 24 goals for Netherlands; club career at AFC Ajax, AC Milan; honours include Ballon d'Or 1988, FIFA World Player of the Year 1992.
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.