These two men have won a record 13 Ballon d'Ors together.
Two of the greatest footballers of their generation and potentially of all time, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have dominated the world of football for almost two decades. Whether at a club or international level, their consistent performances have etched themselves in the history books of the game forever.
Even in 2024, Ronaldo and Messi will lead their respective nations in international tournaments.
Ronaldo's Portugal had a good run at Euro 2024, where they qualified thanks to a 3-0 penalty shootout win over an unlikely Slovenia. However, the 39-year-old star has had a disappointing European season by his standards, registering just one assist and no goals in five appearances. In addition, Ronaldo saw his penalty brilliantly saved by Slovenian goalkeeper Jan Oblak in extra time, which could have been decisive. Portugal eliminated this tournament against France in the quarter-finals.
On the other hand, Messi's Argentina had a perfect group in the Copa America 2024 with three wins, defeating the likes of Canada, Chile, and Peru to finish on top of Group A. They also finished as winners of the event. After suffering a groin/thigh injury against Chile, Messi was not used in Argentina's group final win over Peru, jeopardizing their chances of playing in the quarters of the final. Argentina is doing well under Messi.
Cristiano Ronaldo vs Lionel Messi: Who has more international goals?
Five-time Ballon d'Or winner Ronaldo has enjoyed a remarkable international career, scoring 135 goals in 216 appearances for his country and holding the record for the most international goals scored by a male player in football history. During this period, he won two international titles with Portugal: the 2016 UEFA European Championship and the 2019 UEFA Nations League. On the other hand, eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi also had a brilliant international career, scoring 112 goals in 190 appearances, making him Argentina's all-time top scorer. During this period, he also won three international titles with Argentina - the 2021 and 2024 Copa America and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
With both legends now in the twilight of their careers, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi would love to win another title with their respective countries in what could be their last international tour.
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