Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo and Argentina’s Lionel Messi are considered to be the best footballers in the modern day. Ronaldo and Messi have registered their names in the history books by breaking records for fun. Both the players compete to oust one another to become the best footballer in the world. Their rivalry is further fuelled by the fact that they play in arch-rival clubs in the Spanish La Liga – Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Cristiano Ronaldo operates as a right-footed winger but he can also play either as a forward or a striker. The 31-year-old Portugal captain relies on his sheer power, speed and athleticism. He is also known for his ability to curl brilliant free-kicks and smartly convert penalties if and when he gets an opportunity. His goal scoring prowess and dribbling skills contributed in turning him into the world-class footballer that he is today.
Ronaldo started out at Sporting Lisbon before moving to Manchester United and then eventually to Real Madrid. Cristiano has 491 club career goals in 682 games to his name in addition to the 66 goals he scored in 135 matches for Portugal. The Madrid ace has been bestowed with the prestigious Ballon d’Or three times (2008, 2013, 2014).
Lionel Messi plays as a left-footed winger but he can also operate as a striker or a forward. The 29-year-old Argentina skipper relies on his agility, dribbling and ball control skills. He is famous for his chip goals and his accurate free-kicks. His goal scoring prowess is also top-notch which has helped him become one of the best in the football fraternity.
Messi started out at Barcelona’s world-class academy La Masia before graduating to the first-team at the age of 16. Leo has 478 club career goals in 574 matches to his name in addition to the 72 goals he notched up in 137 games for Argentina. The Barca ace has been honoured with the Ballon d’Or a record five times (2009, 2010, 2011, 2011, 2012, 2015).
Ronaldo and Messi have both been named on the 30-player shortlist for the Ballon d’Or 2016. Who will win the title and earn the bragging rights? Ronaldo? Messi? Only time will tell!
