Paolo Maldini vs Lev Yashin
Italy against Russia. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Paolo Maldini
Italy · 1985–2009 · LB
- Almanac rating
- 96
- Rank in Italy
- #3 of 33
- Caps
- 126 · 976 goals
- Clubs
- AC Milan
- Honours
- 2× Hall of Fame (1991–2000)
One of the greatest defenders of all time, 'Il Capitano' won five Champions League titles with AC Milan and was an icon of Italian football for over two decades. Career record: 126 caps and 976 goals for Italy; club career at AC Milan; honours include 2× Hall of Fame (1991–2000).
Lev Yashin
Russia · 1956–60 · GK
- Almanac rating
- 96
- Rank in Russia
- #1 of 33
- Caps
- 78 · 0 goals
- Clubs
- FC Dinamo Moscow, HC Dynamo Moscow
- Honours
- 2× Ballon d'Or · 4× Hall of Fame (1957–1990)
The legendary "Black Panther" redefined goalkeeping with his athleticism and daring, backstopping the Soviet Union to Olympic gold in 1956 and the 1960 European Championship. Career record: 78 caps and 0 goals for Russia; club career at FC Dinamo Moscow, HC Dynamo Moscow; honours include 2× Ballon d'Or, 4× Hall of Fame (1957–1990).
The verdict
The almanac cannot separate them: both are rated 96.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.