Cristiano Ronaldo vs Lionel Messi: Who has scored more international goals?

These two men have a record total of 13 Ballon d’Or awards between them.

Two of the greatest footballers of their generation and potentially of all-time, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, have ruled the football world for almost two decades now. Both at the club and international level, through their consistent performances, they have etched themselves in the history books of the game forever.

Even in 2024, both Ronaldo and Messi are leading their respective nations towards yet another international title.

Ronaldo’s Portugal have qualified for the quarter-finals at Euro 2024 following a penalty shootout win (3-0) against an incredible Slovenia.

However, the 39-year-old star striker has had an underwhelming Euros campaign by his own high standards, registering just a single assist with no goals to show in four appearances. To add to his misery, Ronaldo had his penalty superbly saved by Slovenian goalkeeper Jan Oblak in extra-time, which could have potentially proven to be the match-winner. Portugal are set to face France next.

On the other hand, Messi’s Argentina have achieved a perfect group at Copa America 2024 with three wins, beating the likes of Canada, Chile and Peru to finish as Group A toppers.

The 37-year-old forward has registered a single assist with no goals so far in two appearances in the competition. Following a groin/thigh injury in the match against Chile, Messi was an unused substitute in Argentina’s final group game win against Peru, putting his chances of playing in the quarter-finals in a predicament. Argentina are set to face Ecuador next.

Also read: Cristiano Ronaldo vs Lionel Messi: Who has won more international trophies?

Cristiano Ronaldo vs Lionel Messi: Who has more international goals?

Five-time Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo has enjoyed an incredible international career, accumulating a mammoth 130 goals in 211 caps for his country and in the process, holding the record for the most international goals scored by a male player in football history. During this period, he has won two international titles with Portugal – the 2016 UEFA European Championship and the 2019 UEFA Nations League.

On the other hand, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi has also enjoyed an illustrious international career, scoring a staggering 108 goals in 184 caps, making him Argentina’s all-time top scorer. During this period, he has also won two international titles with Argentina – the 2021 Copa America and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

With both legends in the twilight of their careers now, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi would love to win another title with their respective countries this summer in what could possibly be their last international tournament.

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