Analyzing the Stats: Who is GOAT 🇵🇹Cristiano Ronaldo or 🇦🇷Lionel Messi?
How to compare Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi to determine who is better? Personally, I think the simplest way is to rely on the facts, because data doesn’t lie.
Goals & Assists Comparison in Top Competitions
As of May 2024, comparing Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in terms of goals and assists in top competitions (Europe’s Big 5 leagues, European competitions, and senior national team matches), here are the stats:
- Cristiano Ronaldo: 755 goals, 272 assists in 81,594 minutes (1.13 goal per 90 minutes).
- Lionel Messi: 690 goals, 339 assists in 72,313 minutes (1.28 goal per 90 minutes).
Both players average more than one goal + assist per match, with Messi slightly ahead in terms of overall productivity.
It’s also worth mentioning 🇵🇱Robert Lewandowski, who has achieved a similar feat in top competitions, with 517 goals and 166 assists in 56,458 minutes, still with opportunities to increase these numbers.
Shooting Comparison
As of December 2024, Cristiano Ronaldo leads by a significant margin in total career goals, having surpassed 900 goals. However, in terms of scoring efficiency, Messi edges out Ronaldo with 0.86 goals per 90 minutes, compared to Ronaldo’s 0.83.
If we exclude Messi’s less proficient penalty ability and focus on their shoot capabilities, Messi’s efficiency improves further. He scores 0.74 goals per 90 minutes, a notable lead over Ronaldo’s 0.68 goals.
Expected Goal XG Comparison
Shot volume and accuracy are crucial factors in goal-scoring. Cristiano Ronaldo, known for his “license to shoot,” averages nearly 5 shots per game, underscoring his reputation. Lionel Messi, while slightly more conservative, still attempts close to 4 shots per match.
Expected Goals (xG), a metric derived from extensive historical shot data, evaluates the quality of scoring opportunities. Ronaldo’s xG conversion rate (xG ÷ total shots) stands at 11%, slightly trailing Messi’s 14%, indicating Messi’s superior shot selection. Ronaldo’s penchant for ambitious long-range efforts may contribute to this difference.
When it comes to shot accuracy, Ronaldo’s on-target percentage is just under 40%, falling short of Messi’s 46%. This highlights Messi’s edge in precision and decision-making in front of goal.
Achievements & Honor Comparison
On the international stage, Ronaldo has secured the 2016 UEFA European Championship and the 2019 UEFA Nations League. In contrast, Messi boasts the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024, and the 2008 Olympic gold medal, giving him a clear edge.
At the club level, Messi has amassed 40 titles compared to Ronaldo’s 33.
Individually, Messi has won 8 Ballon d’Or awards to Ronaldo’s 5. In terms of scoring accolades, including league and Champions League Golden Boots, Messi leads with 29 compared to Ronaldo’s 13.
Whether evaluating team success or personal accolades, Messi emerges as the better player.
When it comes to passing and assists, the comparison tilts heavily in Messi’s favor. As a player capable of excelling both in midfield and attack, Messi naturally outshines Ronaldo in this area.
Who Is the True GOAT?
After reading this analysis, the answer should be clear to any football fan.
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FAQ
How many years has Messi played for Barcelona?
How many years has Messi played for Barcelona? Lionel Messi’s 21-Year Career at Barcelona Lionel Messi’s journey at Barcelona spans 21 years, with numerous milestones and records that have shaped both his career and the club’s legacy. ⚽2000, July 1: At the age of 13 years and 7 days, Messi joined Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, moving from Argentine club Newell’s Old Boys U19 team. ⚽2003, November 16: Messi made his debut for Barcelona in a friendly match against FC Porto.
How many times has Barcelona won La Liga Titles?
How many times has Barcelona won La Liga Titles? Barcelona has won La Liga 27 times.
How many years has Messi played for Barcelona?
How many years has Messi played for Barcelona? Lionel Messi’s 21-Year Career at Barcelona Lionel Messi’s journey at Barcelona spans 21 years, with numerous milestones and records that have shaped both his career and the club’s legacy. ⚽2000, July 1: At the age of 13 years and 7 days, Messi joined Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, moving from Argentine club Newell’s Old Boys U19 team. ⚽2003, November 16: Messi made his debut for Barcelona in a friendly match against FC Porto.
Where is the FC Barcelona？
Where is the FC Barcelona？ FC Barcelona’s home stadium, Camp Nou, is located in Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
