Alessandro Nesta vs Frank Rijkaard
Italy against Netherlands. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Alessandro Nesta
Italy · 1993–2014 · CB
- Almanac rating
- 94
- Rank in Italy
- #6 of 33
- Caps
- 78 · 0 goals
- Clubs
- SS Lazio, AC Milan, CF Montréal
- Honours
- 2× Hall of Fame (2000–2006)
A defender of sublime grace and power, his elegant tackling and impeccable positioning made him a cornerstone for Lazio, AC Milan, and the Azzurri. Career record: 78 caps and 0 goals for Italy; club career at SS Lazio, AC Milan, CF Montréal; honours include 2× Hall of Fame (2000–2006).
Frank Rijkaard
Netherlands · 1980s · CB
- Almanac rating
- 93
- Rank in Netherlands
- #4 of 33
- Caps
- 73 · 10 goals
- Clubs
- AFC Ajax, Real Zaragoza, AC Milan
- Honours
- national Player of the Year 1995
An elegant yet imposing figure, Rijkaard was a defensive lynchpin for both AC Milan and Ajax, winning the Euros in 1988 and dominating as a centre-back or defensive midfielder. Career record: 73 caps and 10 goals for Netherlands; club career at AFC Ajax, Real Zaragoza, AC Milan; honours include national Player of the Year 1995.
The verdict
The almanac puts Alessandro Nesta ahead by 1 rating point, 94 against 93.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.