33·Legends

Adnan Al-Talyani vs Ismail Matar

United Arab Emirates against United Arab Emirates. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.

AA

Adnan Al-Talyani

United Arab Emirates · 1989–96 · ST

Almanac rating
87
Rank in United Arab Emirates
#1 of 33
Clubs
Al-Shaab CSC

In Singapore on 28 October 1989 he scored in the 16th minute against South Korea, and the 1-1 draw that followed carried the UAE to Italia 90, the only World Cup the country has reached. He remains its most capped player with 161 appearances, finished runner-up at the 1996 Asian Cup at home and in three Gulf Cups, played all twenty seasons of his club career at Al-Shaab, and was later voted UAE player of the century. Career record: club career at Al-Shaab CSC.

vs
IM

Ismail Matar

United Arab Emirates · 2003–13 · SS

Almanac rating
86
Rank in United Arab Emirates
#2 of 33
Clubs
Al-Wahda S.C.C., Al Sadd Sports Club

On 30 January 2007 at Zayed Sports City he beat Oman with a 72nd-minute goal to win the UAE the Gulf Cup, the fifth of five in a tournament he left as top scorer and best player. He won it again in 2013, became the first Arab to take a World Youth Championship Golden Ball in 2003, and gave Al Wahda 23 seasons, 101 goals and three league titles, with 36 more in 136 caps for the national team. Career record: club career at Al-Wahda S.C.C., Al Sadd Sports Club.

The verdict

The almanac puts Adnan Al-Talyani ahead by 1 rating point, 87 against 86.

Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.

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