Opinion: Ending the Ronaldo vs Messi Debate - 4 Reasons why Ronaldo is the better player
The Cristiano Ronaldo vs Lionel Messi debate has divided the football community for the better part of a decade. Both players have had incredible careers and it has been a pleasure to watch their rivalry develop.
Particularly when they were both in the La Liga, any Barcelona vs Real Madrid game was must-see TV. They represent an interesting contrast in styles, with Messi reliant more so on skill and technique and Ronaldo combining a smooth skillset with a fantastic physical profile.
Whilst I’ve seen arguments for both players as the 'Greatest of All Time', I have to give the strong edge to Ronaldo. This isn’t to dismiss the accomplishments of Messi, but merely to rightfully pronounce Cristiano as our sport’s best ever player.
Don’t just take my word for it. Throughout this article, I’ll take a comprehensive look at 4 reasons why Cristiano Ronaldo has had a better career.
#1. Champions League domination:
Whilst Messi has been a consistently strong performer in the Champions League, he just hasn’t been at Ronaldo’s level. The Portuguese superstar has by far the most goals in the history of the competition, banging in 124 over his illustrious career.
Not only that, but he has also had more success in the competition in general. Ronaldo has also tasted Champions League success more often, lifting the trophy 5 times compared to 4 for Messi.
This included 3 straight victories with Real Madrid, who struggled mightily this season as soon as he departed. Having already won the trophy with Manchester United, he has his current Juventus side well-poised to take the trophy this season.
Should he continue to deliver epic performances like his hattrick against Atletico Madrid last time out, a 6th Champions League crown would further cement his dominance in this category.