Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo both scored twice this weekend, proving they're still goal machines despite their advancing years. Messi helped Inter Miami secure a 3-2 win over D.C. United in MLS. Meanwhile, Ronaldo netted twice in Al-Nassr's 5-1 thrashing of Al-Riyadh in Saudi Arabia.
Their legendary rivalry continues across continents now. These two have dominated world football for over a decade, sharing 13 Ballon d'Or awards between them. Their competition peaked during their LaLiga years when both chased Spain's prestigious Pichichi Trophy.
Ronaldo's Golden Boot Triumphs Over Messi
During their time as rivals in Spain, Ronaldo actually outscored Messi for the LaLiga Golden Boot three times. CR7 claimed the Pichichi in 2010/11 (40 goals), 2013/14 (31 goals), and 2014/15 (48 goals).
Messi didn't go quietly, though. The Argentine won the award eight times in his career, directly beating Ronaldo in five seasons: 2009/10 (34 goals), 2011/12 (50 goals), 2012/13 (46 goals), 2016/17 (37 goals), and 2017/18 (34 goals).
Ronaldo isn't the only star to have outscored Messi, though. Five other players have managed this impressive feat in recent years:
- Kylian Mbappé (twice in Ligue 1: 2021/22 with 28 goals and 2022/23 with 29 goals)
- Diego Forlán (LaLiga 2008/09 with 32 goals)
- Luis Suárez (LaLiga 2015/16 with 40 goals)
- Denis Bouanga (MLS 2022/23 with 20 goals)
- Christian Benteke (MLS 2023/24 with 23 goals)
Current Goal-Scoring Form
Despite his incredible career, Messi hasn't yet won the MLS Golden Boot. He's currently tied with Denis Bouanga at 22 goals in the race for this season's award. This makes for an exciting betting opportunity as the season approaches its conclusion.
Ronaldo, despite his recent brace, isn't leading the Saudi Pro League scoring charts either. The Portuguese star has 3 goals so far, trailing his Al-Nassr teammate João Félix by 2 goals. For bettors, this competition within the same team adds an interesting dimension to goal-scorer markets.
Both legends return to action this week. Messi and Inter Miami face New York City FC on Wednesday in a crucial MLS clash. Ronaldo's Al-Nassr will battle Jeddah Club in Tuesday's King's Cup fixture.
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, both aging superstars are showing they still have plenty to offer. Their goal-scoring form suggests neither is ready to surrender their status as football royalty just yet. For fans and bettors alike, following their continuing rivalry offers both nostalgia and exciting opportunities.
