Pepe vs Obdulio Varela
Portugal against Uruguay. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Pepe
Portugal · 2010s · CB
- Almanac rating
- 91
- Rank in Portugal
- #6 of 33
- Caps
- 141 · 8 goals
- Clubs
- C.S. Marítimo, FC Porto, Real Madrid Club de Fútbol
- Honours
- Hall of Fame
A warrior at the heart of the defence, known for his aggressive style, leadership, and crucial role in Portugal's Euro 2016 victory and Real Madrid's multiple Champions League successes. Career record: 141 caps and 8 goals for Portugal; club career at C.S. Marítimo, FC Porto, Real Madrid Club de Fútbol; honours include Hall of Fame.
Obdulio Varela
Uruguay · 1942–50 · CB
- Almanac rating
- 91
- Rank in Uruguay
- #8 of 33
- Caps
- 45 · 9 goals
- Clubs
- Montevideo Wanderers Fútbol Club, Club Atlético Peñarol
After Friaça put Brazil ahead at the Maracanã on 16 July 1950, Varela tucked the ball under his arm and walked to referee George Reader to argue an offside he later admitted never existed, buying the minutes it took the stadium to fall silent. Uruguay won that final 2-1, and El Negro Jefe had already been named best player of the 1942 South American Championship, adding six Uruguayan titles with Peñarol. Career record: 45 caps and 9 goals for Uruguay; club career at Montevideo Wanderers Fútbol Club, Club Atlético Peñarol.
The verdict
The almanac cannot separate them: both are rated 91.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.