Messi-Ronaldo Rivalry Escalates in Classic Fashion

The world's two best players are constantly on each other’s neck to claim every honor.

The most prominent prize in world football, FIFA's Ballon d’Or, is now defined by the Ronaldo and Messi rivalry.

It’s like a duel, even when a total of 23 candidates from all over the globe are shortlisted. Messi may be undersized, but he's still gotten the better of his foil in Champions League play.

Messi has leveled his goal tally with Blancos legend Raul, compiling an amazing 71 goals. Still, current Ballon d’Or holder Ronaldo is right on his heels. Ronaldo is at 70, and by the looks of it, he may ultimately prevail. Detractors who scoff that Ronaldo scores most of his goals from penalties treat that fact too lightly. To those dudes who think it’s easy converting penalties, take a look:

This season’s Champions League may not only be about who wins it, but also who scores the most.

Messi, who is on the rise, and Ronaldo, who is already at the pinnacle, are in for a classic back-and-forth match of one-upsmanship.