Johan Cruyff vs Pelé
Johan Cruyff vs Pelé: head-to-head — careers, honours, key numbers and why the rivalry matters.
Why compare Johan Cruyff and Pelé?
Pelé was a Brazilian football legend and a rival of Johan Cruyff's on the pitch. The two players had a deep respect for each other's skills and achievements, and their rivalry was a highlight of the 1970s.
Johan Cruyff
Key numbers
- Goals scored193
- Games played518
- Trophies wonover 1,000
- Years played1964-1984
- Teams played forAjax, Barcelona, Los Angeles Aztecs, Washington Diplomats, Levante, Feyenoord
Top honours
- Ballon d'Or1971, 1973, 1974
- Eredivisie6 titles
- European Cup3 titles
- Intercontinental Cup1 title
- FIFA World Cup runner-up1974
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Pelé
Key numbers
- Total goalsover 1,200
- Total appearancesover 1,300
- World Cups won3
- Goals for Brazil77
- Goals for Santos643
Top honours
- FIFA World Cup1958, 1962, 1970
- Athlete of the Century1999 by the International Olympic Committee
- World Player of the Century2000 by IFFHS
- Guinness World Record1,279 goals in 1,363 games
- Top scorer for Brazil77 goals in 92 matches