Instinctively, I was to vote for Buffon. But after looking up each individual awards (which I consider somewhat similar, although Buffon compiled more accolades), I thought both were basically even. Neuer being voted third best player in 2014 only behind Messi and C. Ronaldo - two all-time elite players - did impress me slightly more as peak than Buffon's runner-up in 2006 behind Cannavaro. Therefore I ended up voting for Neuer, who I project to compile at least a similar number of accolades like Buffon and considered a better choice as best player of WC 2014 than Messi (like Robben). However, this seems to be a discussion where every opinion will have its merits - unless it contains the AINEC phrase...
Gruß,
BSHH
Yashin
Funny you mention the 2014 World Cup Golden Ball, as Neuer was, for me at least, the third best performer for Germany in that tournament. I personally would've given the Golden Ball (if not to Robben, who I think was robbed) to Mats Hummels.
I think your post sums a lot up nicely. It's incredibly close and very subjective.
Funny you mention the 2014 World Cup Golden Ball, as Neuer was, for me at least, the third best performer for Germany in that tournament. I personally would've given the Golden Ball (if not to Robben, who I think was robbed) to Mats Hummels.
I think your post sums a lot up nicely. It's incredibly close and very subjective.
indeed, definitely the best german player at the WC.
hard to go against Buffon right now considering his crazy long career.
Not to argue about the poll, but Buffon was Italy's best player in the 2006 WC. He also had a much better year than Cannavaro (who sucked for half the season with Real).
good case can be made for both but i hate both their faces so wont be able to click on either of them
good case can be made for both but i hate both their faces so wont be able to click on either of them
Might be biased but really can't go wrong with Buffon. Still remember to this day his debut as a 19 yrs old with Italy for WC 1998 qualifier against Russia, in Russia, under the snow, and made a couple of terrific saves to ensure a draw under difficult conditions.
20 years later and he's still a top 5 goalie, won everything he could win and still have the drive to play at the top level. He's simply a legend. Have huge respect for him.