Ronaldo vs Messi: Saudi Arabia's last dance or a new beginning? (Down)

2023-01-19 12:06

Ronaldo vs Messi: Saudi Arabia's last dance or a new beginning? (Down)

Messi and Ronaldo won every Ballon d'Or between 2008 and 2017 until Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric broke their dominance.


The Argentine has since won twice more to lead his Portuguese opponent 7-5 as the world's best player.

When the pair first met in 2008 , United and Barcelona drew 0-0 in the Champions League .

They have never been involved in a goalless game for their club and country in a memorable campaign since, watched by millions at their peak.

Ronaldo vs Messi: Saudi Arabia's last dance or a new beginning? (Down)

Ronaldo out, Messi lifts trophy

The spotlight was on the duo at last year's World Cup in Qatar, but Ronaldo , who was knocked out in the quarter-finals, faded and was left out of the starting XI in the knockout stages, while Messi continued to lift trophy.

Messi became the first ever player to score in every round at the World Cup, scoring seven goals as he completed his trophy collection and was named Player of the Tournament.

Thursday's meeting between two of the sport's greatest contemporary stars could herald a new era for Asian football should the Argentine move to Saudi Arabia.