33·Legends

Franz Beckenbauer vs Juan Alberto Schiaffino

Germany against Uruguay. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.

Franz Beckenbauer

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).

vs
JA

Juan Alberto Schiaffino

Uruguay · 1950–59 · CM

Almanac rating
94
Rank in Uruguay
#1 of 33
Caps
21 · 8 goals
Clubs
Club Atlético Peñarol, AC Milan, AS Roma

The Maracanã fell quiet in the 66th minute on 16 July 1950, when he met Ghiggia's cross and put Uruguay level against a Brazil side already being called champions. That afternoon brought the 1950 World Cup, and he added three Uruguayan titles with Peñarol, a world record move to Milan for 52 million lire in 1954, three Serie A championships in 1955, 1957 and 1959, and the Latin Cup in 1956. Career record: 21 caps and 8 goals for Uruguay; club career at Club Atlético Peñarol, AC Milan, AS Roma.

The verdict

The almanac puts Franz Beckenbauer ahead by 4 rating points, 98 against 94.

Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.

More arguments