The eternal battle to crown a victor between two of the world's greatest footballers looked to be match point Cristiano Ronaldo but how will their international success define their legacy?
With 60 honours for club and country (32 for Messi, 28 for Ronaldo) between the pair the duo have demonstrated their ability at the highest level time and time again.
However, with Portugal's talisman boasting international success does his ability on the world stage outweigh any domestic success between the two stars?
Some of the players hailed as the greatest to play the beautiful game seem to have achieved some degree of success for their home nation; Pele, Maradona, Zico, Zidane, Di Stefano - this close comparison between being crowned greatest of all time shows the level of Messi and Ronaldo have reached over their careers.
With just a World Cup and Copa America missing from the Argentinian wizard's trophy cabinet the lack of an international trophy may yet define his career long battle with the main hailed CR7.
For country, it has often looked like men leading boys with both Messi and Ronaldo carrying their nation's pride but will a lack of World Cup success diminish the memory of the two stars once they hang up their boots?
2018 World Cup
Despite both being among the greats as they embark upon life after 30, the duo have still achieved success for both Real Madrid and Barcelona respectively in the 2018-19 season.
However, their speed and sharpness may not have been at the level it once was but their talent and mentality to win has not yet diminished.
Ronaldo announced himself at the 2018 World Cup with what may have been his best performance yet as he dragged his Portugese teammates over the line to earn a draw against Spain in a 3-3 classic.
Meanwhile, Messi struggled against a highly defensive Icelandic side before missing a penalty that would have seen his side claim three points.
This comparison is between two different styles of games however; Ronaldo was facing a far more fluid opposition that allowed him time and space to roam and burst while Messi was crowded out for the much of the 90 minutes.
Ronaldo flourished against an ageing Spanish line-up and made their foolishness pay with three well taken goals - including a free kick that may currently stand as goal of the tournament.
However, with one game down, neither side have painted themselves in glory with regards to expectations but this may just be the start of a period that could end the debate of who is the greatest of all time.
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