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Argentina football legend Diego Maradona once claimed that Cristiano Ronaldo will never match Lionel Messi. The Portuguese forward's legendary rivalry with the Inter Miami man has lit up modern football.
The two superstars of the beautiful game have divided opinion in the neverending G.O.A.T. debate. While both players are in the twilight of their illustrious careers, the world remains divided on who reigns supreme.
However, speaking to TVR in 2012, Maradona insisted that Ronaldo will always come second to Lionel Messi.
"Cristiano Ronaldo will never be of Messi`s level. Lionel doesn`t need Cristiano Ronaldo`s powerful shot. Messi just dribbles towards the goal with the ball at his feet. When Cristiano Ronaldo won the Ballon d`Or he told Messi No more second places. Now silver is the best he can achieve," said Maradona.
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Diego Maradona had also shed light on Messi being labeled his heir in football.
"I don`t really like comparisons. Nevertheless, the comparison with Messi is a beautiful thing. We are both left-footed, Argentine, and brilliant," said Maradona.
The former Napoli legend managed the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner in their disastrous run at the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Maradona died in November 2020, a couple of years before Lionel Messi would win his first trophy with Argentina.
Was Diego Maradona right about Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo?
When Diego Maradona made the famous prophecy, Lionel Messi was playing for Barcelona, while Cristiano Ronaldo was with Real Madrid. The two have since achieved tremendous success with club and country, justifying their place among the greatest ever.
The Portuguese was the first to taste international success among the two, winning Euro 2016 and UEFA Nations League in 2019. However, many would argue that the Argentinean has since surpassed his bitter rival.
The 37-year-old won the Copa America in 2021, before getting his hands on the Finalissima trophy a year later. Then, in December 2022, he claimed his rightful place alongside Maradona, helping La Albiceleste win the FIFA World Cup.
Lionel Messi has since continued his golden run with his national team, winning the Copa America title once again this year. The diminutive magician has also transformed Inter Miami's fortunes since joining the club in the summer of 2023.
La Pulga won the League Cup with the Herons last season, before helping them to the Supporters' Shield this year. The Florida-based club are now preparing for the MLS Cup playoffs, which begin later this month.
