Franz Beckenbauer vs Nemanja Vidić
Germany against Serbia. 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).
Nemanja Vidić
Serbia · CB
- Almanac rating
- 92
- Rank in Serbia
- #2 of 33
- Caps
- 56 · 2 goals
- Clubs
- FK Crvena zvezda, Spartak Moscow, Manchester United
One half of Manchester United's impenetrable central defensive partnership, the Serbian rock earned five Premier League titles and a Champions League winner's medal. Career record: 56 caps and 2 goals for Serbia; club career at FK Crvena zvezda, Spartak Moscow, Manchester United.
The verdict
The almanac puts Franz Beckenbauer ahead by 6 rating points, 98 against 92.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.