For over two decades, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have shaped the modern era of football. Their rivalry has fueled debates, broken records, and redefined what’s possible on the pitch. From goal-scoring feats to personal accolades, the two legends have left a legacy that might stand for generations — or could it be broken sooner than we think?
As football continues to grow globally, more fans are engaging with the sport than ever before, not just by watching matches but also through fantasy leagues, sports apps, and betting platforms. For fans who want to stay connected to every Messi and Ronaldo stat or place their bets on the next big star, downloading the 4Rabet apk version for mobile offers a fast, easy, and secure way to stay in the game wherever you go. The app provides live stats, betting options, and game updates, helping football lovers enjoy the beautiful game to the fullest.
Now, let’s dive into the top 10 records held by Messi and Ronaldo — and the future stars who might be able to break them.
1. Most Goals in Official Matches (Cristiano Ronaldo)
With over 850 career goals in official matches (as of 2025), Ronaldo holds the record for the most goals in football history. He achieved this across club and country, proving his consistency in Portugal, England, Spain, and Italy.
Who Might Break It?
Erling Haaland is already showing signs of being a goal-scoring machine. If he stays injury-free and maintains his current pace, he could pose a real threat to this record.
2. Most Ballon d’Or Awards (Lionel Messi – 8)
Messi holds the record with 8 Ballon d'Or wins, the most prestigious individual award in football. His blend of vision, dribbling, and goalscoring earned him this honor repeatedly.
Who Might Break It?
Kylian Mbappé is a strong candidate. Still only in his 20s, he's already among the world's best and has the talent and profile to rack up Ballon d’Or wins in the coming decade.
3. Most Hat-Tricks in Football History (Cristiano Ronaldo)
With over 60 career hat-tricks, Ronaldo has made it look easy to score three in one match. His aerial ability, pace, and precision make him a natural finisher.
Who Might Break It?
Haaland again comes to mind, with multiple hat-tricks in the Premier League before age 24. His physicality and instincts could see him rival this tally in the next 10 years.
4. Most Goals in a Calendar Year (Lionel Messi – 91 goals in 2012)
Messi’s 2012 was simply unreal. Scoring 91 goals in a single calendar year is one of the most difficult feats ever, requiring relentless consistency.
Who Might Break It?
This one is tough. Possibly Mbappé, if he gets into a rhythm during a long season and performs well for both club and country.
5. Only Players to Score in 10+ Consecutive International Tournaments (Both)
Messi and Ronaldo have scored in nearly every international competition they've played in for their countries, spanning World Cups and regional tournaments.
Who Might Break It?
Jude Bellingham could be a dark horse here. Starting international tournaments young gives him the runway to challenge this streak if he stays fit and consistent.
6. Most Champions League Goals (Cristiano Ronaldo – 140+)
Ronaldo is the king of the UEFA Champions League, both in goals and titles won. His record of Champions League goals may never be touched.
Who Might Break It?
Mbappé and Haaland again lead the pack. But they’ll need deep runs in the competition season after season to catch Ronaldo’s tally.
7. Most Assists in La Liga History (Lionel Messi – 192)
Messi isn’t just a scorer — he's a creator. With 192 assists in La Liga alone, he tops the chart for vision, creativity, and teamwork.
Who Might Break It?
While players like Pedri or Jamal Musiala show creative brilliance, this record may stand due to Messi’s long dominance at one club.
8. Only Players to Score in 5 Different World Cups (Both)
Messi and Ronaldo both achieved a rare feat: scoring in five different FIFA World Cups, a sign of both talent and longevity.
Who Might Break It?
This is very hard to break unless a player starts at a very young age. Youssoufa Moukoko or Endrick could be long shots, given their early international debuts.
9. Most Club Goals for a Single Club (Lionel Messi – 672 for Barcelona)
Messi scored 672 goals for Barcelona, a record unlikely to be broken unless a player stays with one club for over a decade.
Who Might Break It?
In an era of frequent transfers, it's unlikely. Maybe someone like Bukayo Saka at Arsenal could get close if he stays loyal and consistent.
10. Most International Goals (Cristiano Ronaldo – 128+ for Portugal)
Ronaldo is the highest-scoring international player in football history with 128+ goals for Portugal, surpassing legends like Ali Daei.
Who Might Break It?
Haaland or Neymar Jr. (still playing in 2025) might get close, but they'd need to maintain high performance for years to come. This one could stand for a long time.
Will These Records Be Broken?
Some records seem unbeatable. Others are closer than ever to falling. One thing is for sure — football is evolving, and each new generation brings talents that challenge the dominance of Messi and Ronaldo.
What sets Messi and Ronaldo apart isn’t just their numbers, but the way they’ve inspired millions around the world. Whether you support one over the other, their rivalry has pushed both to greatness.
And as fans, we’re lucky to witness it all.
Final Thoughts
Messi and Ronaldo will go down as the greatest footballers of all time. Their records reflect unmatched passion, discipline, and longevity. While some of their stats may stand the test of time, others will eventually be broken — as football continues to evolve.
But no matter who comes next, Messi and Ronaldo will always be the benchmark. And for fans around the world, the debate will never truly be over.