Lionel Messi may no longer share a European stage with Cristiano Ronaldo, but their rivalry continues to burn brightly in the record books.
The Argentine maestro scored twice for Inter Miami in a 5–1 win over the New York Red Bulls on Saturday, marking his sixth brace in just seven games—and quietly surpassing Ronaldo in one key area.
Messi’s two goals took his career non-penalty goal tally to 764, edging past Ronaldo’s 763. What’s more, the Inter Miami star reached that figure in 167 fewer matches, a testament to his relentless efficiency and longevity.
Now 38, Messi is also firmly in the MLS Golden Boot race, tied at 18 goals with Nashville SC’s Sam Surridge.
Since arriving in the U.S. in mid-2023, Messi has racked up 58 goals and 26 assists in 68 games, with only two of those goals coming from the penalty spot. In comparison, Ronaldo has 93 goals and 11 assists in 105 matches for Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr—25 of those goals from penalties.
The Argentine’s latest feat reignites the age-old GOAT debate, which still stirs passion among fans even if the players themselves have mellowed. In June, Messi acknowledged their rivalry with grace:
“I have a lot of respect and admiration for Cristiano… The competition with him was on the pitch. Off the pitch, we are two normal people.”
While a return to the Ballon d’Or stage is unlikely for either icon, their twilight years continue to produce stunning numbers and fanfare.
Messi’s next outing comes in the MLS All-Star Game against Liga MX’s finest. Ronaldo is expected back in Saudi Pro League action in August.
The league may have changed, but the legacy duel rages on.
