Once upon a time the biggest debate in world football was between Pele and Diego Maradona to determine who the greatest player was. Never did one think that this debate could be trumped. But in the coming years it was. Not only that, but the debate that took place had more credibility. Yes, we speak of the debate on who is the best footballer between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

Cristiano Ronaldo vs Lionel Messi

For over two decades, fans have debated who is better. Friendships have been forged and severed over this. Having said that, the players themselves have nothing but respect for each other. Just like in the case of Pela and Maradona, mutual respect is there. But this debate can have a common baseline because both CR7 and LM10 have played in the same era.

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A Great Rivalry

Whether it was against each other at club level or international; Ronaldo and Messi have faced each other at times and also played at the same time in different games. In the case of the other rivalry and debate, Maradona entered the scene when Pele had already left the arena. Neither of them faced each other, and they never played at the same time. In other words, the common baseline was missing.

Playing in the Same Era

When it comes to Ronaldo and Messi, the debate intensified because both players gave their all. Even when they were not competing with each other, it seemed like a competition. The rivalry was forged by the fans, and the debate became a hot topic because of the rivalry. While Ronaldo and Messi on the surface never let it affect them, no doubt it did play on their minds. They are human after all. Of course, just like that of Pele and Maradona, their debate remains unresolved.

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The Debate Never Ends

If Messi leading Argentina to a FIFA World Cup title in 2022 after 36 years gives him the edge, then one must remember that Ronaldo put Portugal on the map. He led them to their first international trophy, which was Euro 2016. At club level, they matched each other well. Statistically Ronaldo is superior, but impact wise Messi may just have the edge. But then again, no neutral point of view is possible, and fans continue to debate. Just like Pele vs Maradona. But at least, in the case of Ronaldo and Messi, a comparison can be made on data available since both played in the same era.

Who Is Better?

Pele and Maradona are no longer on this planet. They may be enjoying the Beautiful Game in Heaven for all we know. As for Ronaldo and Messi, both have retired from international football but are still active at club level. When they leave the sport, football will be hollower than before. But one thing is for sure; the debate surrounding them will live on for years to come. Their rivalry made them legendary, and every legend is the subject of debate. Who is your choice? There is no right and wrong answer. Fans have seen them play in the same era and against each other too. So, conclusions can be drawn more easily than when it comes to Pele vs Maradona. A more credible debate to speak.