Home/Soccer

via Imago

via Imago

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo last faced off in an exhibition match several months back. The event was PSG’s friendly match against the Riyadh All-Star team, including Cristiano Ronaldo. Fittingly, both the legends scored as PSG won the game 5-4, with Ronaldo recording a brace.

Fans had expected this to be the last chapter in one of the greatest rivalries in soccer history. Hence, the latest news regarding Inter Miami’s participation in the Riyadh Cup is one that will delight soccer fans all around the world.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo set for their last encounter

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

As per reports on X, Inter Miami will be participating in the Riyadh Season Cup 2024. The Saudi Government conducts the tournament to promote sports and entertainment. As the event usually happens between October and March, sporting fans hope to witness the sensational GOATs battle it out yet again. The inaugural edition of the Riyadh Cup took place in 2019, while the last edition in 2023 involved PSG facing off against the best players in Saudi Arabia. While the previous edition featured Messi and Ronaldo, this match is likely the final face-off between the soccer icons.

This time, the tournament involves three teams-Al Nassr, Ali Hilal, and Inter Miami. Frustratingly, Neymar won’t feature in the match as he is recovering from an ACL injury. The games will take place in Al Hilal’s home stadium, Kingdom Arena, which houses a capacity of 26,000. There will be three matches in total, and the team with the most points will be crowned the winners of the Riyadh Season Cup.

Appropriately dubbed the ‘Last Dance’, this marks the 38th time both players are facing off against each other. In terms of career and recognition, there is very little to separate these superstars. Ask Steven Gerrard, who keeps changing between them as the ‘GOAT’.

Read More: Despite Lauding Lionel Messi’s ‘Genius,’ Brazilian Rival Claims to Limit His Participation at FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

Messi vs Ronaldo: Liverpool Hero Reveals His Take

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

In 2022, Steven Gerrard chose Messi over Ronaldo in the overlap podcast. However, he also admired the ‘phenomenal’ Ronaldo in his claims. Fast forward to 2023, and Gerrard has claimed Ronaldo as the ‘G.O.A.T’. Did Gerrard change his mind?

Gerrard’s viewpoint highlights the nature of the Messi vs Ronaldo debate. The two icons have enjoyed vastly successful careers, and instead of choosing between them, it’s best to embrace the legends who are in the twilight of their careers. Moreover, the former Liverpool captain also highlighted how Ronaldo impacted the visibility of the SPL. Moreover, he attracted big-name players to the league, boosting its popularity. 

With Ronaldo and Messi set to face off one last time, who do you think will come out on top? Let us know in the comments below.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

WATCH THIS STORY: Ten Times Cristiano Ronaldo Scored Four Goals in a Game