Albert Shesternyov vs Nikita Simonyan
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.
Nikita Simonyan
Russia · 1949–59 · ST
- Almanac rating
- 90
- Rank in Russia
- #6 of 33
- Caps
- 20 · 10 goals
- Clubs
- FC Dinamo Sukhumi, FC Krylya Sovetov Moscow, Spartak Moscow
- Honours
- 5× Hall of Fame (1957–2022)
After taking Eduard Streltsov's place in the 1956 Olympic final, he offered the young forward his gold medal, and Streltsov turned it down. Melbourne gold sat alongside the captaincy of the Soviet Union at the 1958 World Cup, four Soviet league titles and two cups with Spartak Moscow, three scoring crowns, and a club record of 160 goals that still stands. Career record: 20 caps and 10 goals for Russia; club career at FC Dinamo Sukhumi, FC Krylya Sovetov Moscow, Spartak Moscow; honours include 5× Hall of Fame (1957–2022).
The verdict
The almanac cannot separate them: both are rated 90.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.