Pelé vs Diego Maradona
Pelé vs Diego Maradona: head-to-head — careers, honours, key numbers and why the rivalry matters.
Why compare Pelé and Diego Maradona?
Pelé and Maradona are often compared as two of the greatest footballers. Their rivalry was highlighted during the 1986 World Cup, where Maradona's Argentina triumphed, contrasting with Pelé's earlier successes.
Pelé
Key numbers
- Career goalsOver 1,000
- World Cup appearances14
- International goals77
- Club appearances600+
Top honours
- FIFA World Cup3 titles (1958, 1962, 1970)
- Copa Libertadores1 title (1962)
- Intercontinental Cup2 titles (1962, 1963)
- FIFA Player of the CenturyCo-winner (2000)
- International Football Hall of FameInducted (2004)
VS
Diego Maradona
Key numbers
- International Caps91
- International Goals8
- Club Goals300+
Top honours
- FIFA World Cup1986
- FIFA U-20 World Cup1979
- Serie A1986-87, 1989-90
- Copa del Rey1982-83
- UEFA Cup1988-89