Franz Beckenbauer vs Eusébio
Germany against Portugal. 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).
Eusébio
Portugal · 1960s · SS
- Almanac rating
- 97
- Rank in Portugal
- #2 of 33
- Caps
- 64 · 41 goals
- Clubs
- C.D. Maxaquene, S.L. Benfica, Toronto Blizzard
- Honours
- Ballon d'Or · 2× Hall of Fame
The 'Black Panther' remains one of football's most prolific strikers, his blistering pace and devastating shot powering Benfica to European glory and Portugal to third at the 1966 World Cup. Career record: 64 caps and 41 goals for Portugal; club career at C.D. Maxaquene, S.L. Benfica, Toronto Blizzard; honours include Ballon d'Or, 2× Hall of Fame.
The verdict
The almanac puts Franz Beckenbauer ahead by 1 rating point, 98 against 97.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.