Even if you don’t know much about soccer, I can almost guarantee you’ve heard the names “Ronaldo” or “Messi” before. Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are considered the two best soccer players in the world. They play for the two best and also rivaling Spanish teams, FC Barcelona (Messi) and Real Madrid CF (Ronaldo).
The rivalry between these two soccer teams is so notorious, that the phrase “El Clásico” is used to describe any game these two teams play one another, regardless of how important the match is. The tension between these two Spanish soccer clubs dates back to the Spanish Civil War, as these clubs not only represent their city’s pride but conflicting cultures and politics within Spain. However both Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi both embody the spirit of these two feuding cities within Spain, despite the fact that neither of them are actually Spanish. The spirited rivalry between the teams also is reflected between Messi and Ronaldo as individuals, as they aggressively try to prove why they are the best soccer player in the world now.
The Argentinian Lionel Messi has been playing for FC Barcelona since 2004. Playing as a striker for the team, Messi is renowned for his ability to drive through defenders with such ease because of his speed and agility. Lionel is so talented that he has on many occasi
ons, taken on up to four defenders on at once while still managing to control the ball and be within scoring range only a few feet from the goal box. Defenders from every team facing Barcelona FC fear the 5 ft. 7” Argentinian, as he can single handedly walk through attempts to stop him once he has the ball. Showing the world that stature does not necessarily mean everything, Lionel Messi is a true juggernaut in the sport of soccer.
The Portuguese Cristiano Ronaldo has played for Real Madrid CF since his 2009 transfer from Manchester United FC. Since his arrival to the team, he has shown the world that he truly is a force to be reckoned with. Unlike Messi’s close encounters, Cristiano’s playing style is known for his powerful and accurate long distance shots on goal. Switching roles between a st
riker and a wing player who crosses the ball, he is lethal on the soccer field in any offensive position. Cristiano is known for his superb footwork when it comes to dribbling the ball, as he can react well under pressure to outmaneuver the opponent defenders.
Ronaldo has acquired over 417 goals during his ongoing professional career, while Messi has claimed 408 during his. Both players however continue to strive to beat Pelé’s club career record of 643 goals achieved in 18 years. While they are still far from breaking records, both still have many more years in their careers as two of the greatest players in current soccer to accumulate more goals. It is impossible to declare a definitive winner for greatest current soccer player because the statistics are constantly changing. Messi and Ronaldo are both equally talented and have mastered their own unique playing styles. Currently Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo will continue to clash over who is the better player, but as of now they are neck and neck in a gridlock over who is the greatest in today’s standards. Despite this however, they both represent the face of soccer internationally for two of the most popular Spanish teams. Any soccer fan, no matter what soccer team they personally support, will debate among other soccer enthusiasts why Messi or why Ronaldo is the more talented soccer player. They are truly legends of soccer today. 
sebastianholland 