“We can finish the debate” “No Argument” - Fans feel Cristiano Ronaldo v Lionel Messi GOAT debate is over after 1000-game comparison picks winner
Fans reckon the GOAT debate between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi is over after an incredible stat between both superstars emerged on X. It depicted Messi largely overshadowing Ronaldo in terms of goals, assists, and trophies after the first 1000 games in their storied careers.
The GOAT debate between Ronaldo and Messi has raged on for well over a decade. Both superstars have accumulated a total of 13 Ballons d'Or between them, with the latter winning eight - the most in football history.
Lionel Messi has largely been credited for his exceptional talent and magical ability on the ball throughout his career. However, in contrast, Cristiano Ronaldo has been hailed for his dedication to his craft and hard work. This has allowed him to continue playing at the highest level despite being at the age of 39.
Many fans believed the GOAT debate was over after Messi won the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. However, a statistic by World of Statistics on X went viral after sharing both icons' stats after their first 1000 games for club and country across all competitions.
After 1000 games, Cristiano Ronaldo had scored 725 goals and provided 216 assists, winning 31 trophies. On the other hand, Lionel Messi significantly outperformed the Portugal ace with 789 goals and 348 assists, lifting 41 trophies. The latter has also been recognized for his playmaking ability which has reflected in his total assists.
One fan reacted:
"Ok, we can finish the debate, Messi is better"
Another fan wrote:
"Now, who’s your GOAT. No argument"
Other reactions can be viewed below:
"Nah Messi is not normal cuz why is he doing both playmaking and goalscoring job like is nothing," one fan pointed out
"Best" team player vs. "Best" solo player. Team makes a difference. Messi," one fan said
"Tears messi is so clear," another added
"Ronaldo want to be like Messi," one fan stated
"The goals say it's Messi. The assists say it's Messi. Trophies say it's Messi. Individual awards say it's Messi. Eye test says it's Messi. But Ronaldo fans think there is a debate," another wrote
"Messi always outclassed the rest," one fan chimed in
"And they say Ronaldo is the goat," another posted
Cristiano Ronaldo vs Lionel Messi: Taking a look at both superstars' overall stats
Many fans have hailed Lionel Messi as the GOAT over Cristiano Ronaldo after viewing his stats in their first 1000 games. However, it's imperative to take in longevity as a factor as well so let's take a quick look at their overall stats for club and country.
Cristiano Ronaldo is currently the highest goalscorer of all time with 893 goals and 251 assists in 1225 appearances across all competitions. He has also won 33 senior trophies and averages 112 minutes per goal, as well as 87 minutes per goal contribution.
Meanwhile, Lionel Messi has registered 835 goals and 372 assists in 1062 total appearances. He averages 105 minutes per goal and 72 minutes per goal contribution - which is superior to Ronaldo's. He has also won 44 trophies - the most in the sport's history.