Carlos Vela vs Rafael Márquez
Mexico against Mexico. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Carlos Vela
Mexico · 2005–22 · CAM
- Almanac rating
- 86
- Rank in Mexico
- #9 of 33
- Caps
- 72 · 19 goals
- Clubs
- Club Atlético Osasuna, Real Sociedad, Los Angeles
- Honours
- Golden Boot
On Decision Day, 6 October 2019, he took a hat-trick off Colorado, the second an overhead volley, and closed the season on 34 goals, more than any player had scored in an MLS season. That year brought the MLS MVP award and the league's Golden Boot; he also owns the 2022 MLS Cup and two Supporters' Shields at LAFC, Gold Cups with Mexico in 2009 and 2015, and the top scorer prize from the 2005 Under-17 World Cup. Career record: 72 caps and 19 goals for Mexico; club career at Club Atlético Osasuna, Real Sociedad, Los Angeles; honours include Golden Boot.
Rafael Márquez
Mexico · 1999–2009 · CB
- Almanac rating
- 90
- Rank in Mexico
- #2 of 33
- Caps
- 146 · 19 goals
- Clubs
- AS Monaco, FC Barcelona, Club León
Six minutes into the round of 16 against Argentina on 24 June 2006 he put Mexico in front with his right foot, and only Maxi Rodríguez's volley in the 98th minute ended it. No one else has captained a country at five World Cups, and he took the Champions League with Barcelona in 2006 and 2009, four Spanish titles, Ligue 1 with Monaco in 2000, the 1999 Confederations Cup and two Gold Cups from 147 caps. Career record: 146 caps and 19 goals for Mexico; club career at AS Monaco, FC Barcelona, Club León.
The verdict
The almanac puts Rafael Márquez ahead by 4 rating points, 90 against 86.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.