best striker of the last 20 yeras?

bluenine wrote:IMO, Its between 4 players.

Van Basten, Romario, Baggio, and Ronaldo.

Lets not rule out Baggio on a technicality - he did play as the main striker for many of his teams - the highest scorer in Serie A of our times, Roberto Baggio was both a goalscorer and playmaker in equal quantities. And has carried teams on his own so so many times.

But if you ask me who was the best of these as a goal scorer, it depends on the criteria:

1. Technically as a goalscorer (at their best): 1. Van Basten, 2. Ronaldo

2. Pure talent: 1. Baggio, 2. Romario

3. Achievements as a goal scorer (over career): 1. Van Basten, 2. Romario

4. Achievements in world cup: 1. Ronaldo, 2. Baggio

5. Qualities as a finisher: 1. Van Basten, 2. Romario

Overall, if I had to rate them over their career as a gaol scorer, it would be:

1. Van Basten
2. Ronaldo
3. Romario/Baggio

Most people on this board have probably forgotten what Van basten was like - he was the ideal goalscorer, had all the characteristics required, and in his time there was no dopubt who was the best.

Ronaldo, pre injury he was a phenomenon. That level was never reached by Romario, inspite of all the talent. Ronaldo could do what even Van Basten couldn't. Unfortunately, he was never the same after 98, even tho he did manage to score quite a few goals after that.

Romario was a goal machine, and rarely would you call someone who has scored so many an under-achiever, but looking at his talent, thats what he is. He could have achieved more with his talent, but his temperament was suspect.

Baggio, not as high on the list of goal scorers, coz he was so much more that just that. As a football talent, probably better than all the above.