Michael Essien vs Roy Keane
Ghana against Ireland. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Michael Essien
Ghana · 2005–12 · CDM
- Almanac rating
- 90
- Rank in Ghana
- #1 of 33
- Caps
- 59 · 9 goals
- Clubs
- SC Bastia, Olympique Lyonnais, Chelsea
Nine minutes into the semi-final second leg at Stamford Bridge on 6 May 2009, a Barcelona clearance dropped to Essien 25 yards out and he volleyed it in off the underside of the bar. He won the Champions League with Chelsea in 2012, two Premier League titles and four FA Cups there, back-to-back Ligue 1 titles at Lyon, and took Ligue 1 Player of the Year in 2005 and BBC African Footballer of the Year in 2006. Career record: 59 caps and 9 goals for Ghana; club career at SC Bastia, Olympique Lyonnais, Chelsea.
Roy Keane
Ireland · 1990s · CDM
- Almanac rating
- 91
- Rank in Ireland
- #1 of 33
- Caps
- 67 · 9 goals
- Clubs
- Cobh Ramblers, Nottingham Forest, Manchester United
- Honours
- 2× Hall of Fame (2021–2021)
The fiery heart of Manchester United for years, his combative style and inspirational leadership powered them to countless trophies, including the 1999 treble. Career record: 67 caps and 9 goals for Ireland; club career at Cobh Ramblers, Nottingham Forest, Manchester United; honours include 2× Hall of Fame (2021–2021).
The verdict
The almanac puts Roy Keane ahead by 1 rating point, 91 against 90.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.