Fans on X have blasted Cristiano Ronaldo for his low-goal contribution tally in international knockout games at major competitions compared to Lionel Messi. Many reckon the latter is now the GOAT given his superior record for Argentina when his nation has needed him the most.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have fiercely contested the GOAT debate for well over a decade, garnering a combined 13 Ballon d’Or. Both superstars have found success for Portugal and Argentina respectively, with the latter inspiring his side to 2022 FIFA World Cup glory.
Cristiano Ronaldo recently featured for A Selecao at Euro 2024. However, he had a disappointing campaign, providing just one assist in their group-stage fixture against Turkey. The 39-year-old failed to get on the scoresheet in their five games. He was rendered helpless as Portugal were knocked out in the quarter-finals by France on penalties.
Meanwhile, Lionel Messi scored his first goal of the 2024 Copa America yesterday (July 9), helping Argentina defeat Canada 2-0 in the semi-finals to advance to the finals. The Inter Miami ace has now scored one goal and provided one assist in his four games.
ESPN posted a mind blowing statistic on social media conveying each megastar’s record on the big stage. In the knockout stages of the World Cup and Copa America, Lionel Messi has scored 11 goals and provided 17 assists in 29 appearances. This includes a brilliant brace in the 2022 FIFA World Cup final where Argentina defeated France on penalties.
