Franco Baresi vs Eusébio
Italy against Portugal. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Franco Baresi
Italy · 1977–97 · CB
- Almanac rating
- 96
- Rank in Italy
- #1 of 33
- Caps
- 81 · 1 goals
- Clubs
- AC Milan
- Honours
- Hall of Fame 1991
Il Capitano, a balletic yet formidable defender, marshalled AC Milan and Italy with unmatched elegance and leadership, securing numerous Serie A and Champions League titles. Career record: 81 caps and 1 goals for Italy; club career at AC Milan; honours include Hall of Fame 1991.
Eusébio
Portugal · 1960s · SS
- Almanac rating
- 97
- Rank in Portugal
- #2 of 33
- Caps
- 64 · 41 goals
- Clubs
- C.D. Maxaquene, S.L. Benfica, Toronto Blizzard
- Honours
- Ballon d'Or · 2× Hall of Fame
The 'Black Panther' remains one of football's most prolific strikers, his blistering pace and devastating shot powering Benfica to European glory and Portugal to third at the 1966 World Cup. Career record: 64 caps and 41 goals for Portugal; club career at C.D. Maxaquene, S.L. Benfica, Toronto Blizzard; honours include Ballon d'Or, 2× Hall of Fame.
The verdict
The almanac puts Eusébio ahead by 1 rating point, 97 against 96.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.