Albert Shesternyov vs Anatoli Ilyin
Russia against Russia. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Albert Shesternyov
Russia · CB
- Almanac rating
- 90
- Rank in Russia
- #5 of 33
- Caps
- 90 · 0 goals
- Clubs
- PFC CSKA Moscow
Captain of the Soviet Union through the 1960s, this formidable defender was known as "The Russian Iron" for his uncompromising style and leadership at two World Cups. Career record: 90 caps and 0 goals for Russia; club career at PFC CSKA Moscow.
Anatoli Ilyin
Russia · 1949–62 · LM
- Almanac rating
- 88
- Rank in Russia
- #9 of 33
- Caps
- 31 · 16 goals
- Clubs
- Spartak Moscow
- Honours
- 2× Hall of Fame
Three minutes after half time in Melbourne on 8 December 1956, he scored the only goal of the Olympic final against Yugoslavia, and two years later he opened the European Championship's very first match four minutes in. Olympic gold in 1956 came with five Soviet league titles and a cup at Spartak Moscow, two league scoring crowns, and the goal that knocked England out of the 1958 World Cup. Career record: 31 caps and 16 goals for Russia; club career at Spartak Moscow; honours include 2× Hall of Fame.
The verdict
The almanac puts Albert Shesternyov ahead by 2 rating points, 90 against 88.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.