The rivalry between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi is always in spotlight, even as both the legends edge towards the sunset of their careers. While Messi has already accumulated silverware in the United States with Inter Miami, Ronaldo’s quest for his maiden title in Saudi Arabia with Al Nassr continues frustratingly incomplete.
Ronaldo Again Goes Trophyless
Ronaldo signed for Al Nassr with the dream of making the Riyadh-based outfit serial champions. Yet, although his goal-scoring has been regular, key honours have evaded him. In the latest example, Al Nassr were beaten by Al Ahli Saudi FC on penalties after a 2-2 tie in regulation time in the 2025 Saudi Super Cup final.
That defeat marked Ronaldo’s third straight final loss at the club level, following setbacks in the 2024 Saudi Super Cup (vs Al Hilal) and the 2024 King’s Cup final.
Also Read: How Many Finals Has Cristiano Ronaldo Lost With Al-Nassr?
Messi’s Immediate Impact In Miami
On the other side, Lionel Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami has been nothing short of transformational. The Argentine maestro has already lifted two trophies with the MLS side the Leagues Cup and the US Open Cup, while racking up astonishing goal contributions in a short span.
Messi’s success has given him an edge in the ongoing comparison, proving that even late in his career, he can deliver silverware at a new club.
International Contrasts
As Ronaldo’s frustrations at club level persist, he reminded everyone of his international credentials by guiding Portugal to UEFA Nations League triumph in 2025, edging Spain on penalties. Messi, meanwhile, has already won the 2022 FIFA World Cup with Argentina, the pinnacle of his career.
Head-to-Head: Records In Finals
Ronaldo has appeared in 37 career finals, winning 25 and losing 12, with 25 goals from those final games. Messi, on the other hand, has played in 42 finals, winning 29 and losing 13, also having an amazing goal contribution count in those finals.
Stat Showdown: Ronaldo Vs Messi At Current Clubs
| Player | Club | Matches | Goals + Assists | Penalties Scored | Trophies |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cristiano Ronaldo | Al Nassr | 112 | 119 | 27 | ❌ 0 |
| Lionel Messi | Inter Miami | 71 | 87 | 2 | 🏆 2 |
