Franz Beckenbauer vs Andriy Shevchenko
Germany against Ukraine. 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).
Andriy Shevchenko
Ukraine · 2003–04 · ST
- Almanac rating
- 95
- Rank in Ukraine
- #1 of 33
- Caps
- 111 · 48 goals
- Clubs
- FC Dynamo Kyiv, AC Milan, Chelsea
- Honours
- Ballon d'Or 2004 · 5× Hall of Fame (2004–2004)
Ukraine's favourite son, the clinical Milan striker lifted the Champions League in 2003 and earned the 2004 Ballon d'Or for his prolific goal-scoring. Career record: 111 caps and 48 goals for Ukraine; club career at FC Dynamo Kyiv, AC Milan, Chelsea; honours include Ballon d'Or 2004, 5× Hall of Fame (2004–2004).
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.