Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are two of the greatest football players in history. Their rivalry, often considered the most iconic in sports, has captivated fans across the globe for over a decade. From the UEFA Champions League to El Clasico and international fixtures, these two giants have faced off countless times, creating millions of memorable moments. But how many times have Messi and Ronaldo played each other, and what were the outcomes of these epic duels? Let's find out with Bet Win Tips in the article below!
How many times have Messi and Ronaldo played each other?
The duo have faced each other a total of 36 times in competitive matches, with Messi holding a slight edge with 16 victories compared to Ronaldo’s 11, and nine matches ending in a draw. Messi has scored 22 goals and provided 11 assists in these encounters, compared to Ronaldo’s 21 goals and one assist. Their meetings have spanned multiple countries, tournaments, and iconic clubs, showcasing their unparalleled consistency and dominance across different stages of their careers.
Ronaldo has represented four clubs since their first encounter — Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and now Al Nassr — while Messi has played for Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Inter Miami. Their clashes in the UEFA Champions League, particularly in the knockout stages, remain some of the most memorable moments in football history.
Iconic moments
Here are six of the most iconic clashes that defined this rivalry, illustrating the sheer brilliance of two of football's greatest players.
Champions League Final (Manchester United 0-2 Barcelona, May 27, 2009)
The 2009 Champions League final in Rome was billed as a monumental showdown between the two best players in the world at the time. Messi and Ronaldo were both at the peak of their powers, leading Barcelona and Manchester United, respectively, into what was expected to be a fiercely contested battle.
Barcelona dominated the match, playing their signature tiki-taka style that left United chasing shadows. Messi was instrumental in Barcelona's success, even scoring a rare header for the team's second goal—a moment that is still vividly remembered by fans. That header, which looped gracefully over Edwin van der Sar, was symbolic of Messi's ability to rise to the occasion, both figuratively and literally. Barcelona's 2-0 victory not only secured their first-ever treble of the league, domestic cup, and European Cup but also solidified Messi's status as one of the game's all-time greats.
‘La Manita’ (Barcelona 5-0 Real Madrid, Nov. 29, 2010)
This encounter was less of a match and more of a statement. By the time the final whistle blew, Barcelona had not only defeated Real Madrid but humiliated them on a night that Camp Nou would never forget. The game, which was supposed to serve as a proving ground for both Messi and Ronaldo—who were now both Ballon d’Or winners—turned into a one-sided spectacle.
Although Messi didn’t score, he orchestrated the game with unmatched brilliance, setting up two goals and creating havoc for Madrid’s defense. The match ended with Gerard Piqué raising his hand to signify the "Manita" (five fingers), immortalizing the 5-0 scoreline. For Ronaldo and Real Madrid, the game was a bitter reminder of the dominance Barcelona exerted during this period.
Ronaldo’s Revenge (Real Madrid 1-0 Barcelona, April 20, 2011)
After several failed attempts to defeat Barcelona in a Real Madrid jersey, Ronaldo finally got his moment of triumph in the 2011 Copa del Rey final. Played at a neutral venue, the Mestalla, the match was a tense, closely fought contest that remained goalless through regular time.
In the 103rd minute of extra time, Ronaldo leaped into the air and delivered a towering header that sealed the victory for Los Blancos. His goal not only won the Copa del Rey for Real Madrid but also proved that he could step up and deliver against Barcelona. However, this victory came in an unprecedented run of four Clasicos in just three weeks, with Barcelona later advancing to the Champions League final at Real’s expense.
Cristiano Calls for 'Calma' (Barcelona 1-2 Real Madrid, April 21, 2012)
This match was pivotal in the 2011-12 La Liga title race. Barcelona entered the game needing a win to keep their title hopes alive, while Real Madrid aimed to create an unassailable lead at the top of the table.
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Ronaldo delivered a masterclass, scoring the decisive goal late in the match. After rounding Victor Valdés and calmly slotting the ball into the net, Ronaldo silenced the Camp Nou crowd with his now-iconic “calma” gesture, signaling calm amidst the chaos. This victory effectively ended Barcelona’s grip on La Liga, as Real Madrid went on to win the league title, breaking the Spanish league scoring record in the process.
Copa Woe at Camp Nou (Barcelona 1-3 Real Madrid, February 26, 2013)
Ronaldo once again broke Barcelona's hearts in the Copa del Rey, delivering a performance for the ages. After the first leg of the semi-final ended in a 1-1 draw at the Bernabéu, all eyes were on the return leg at Camp Nou.
Ronaldo took center stage, scoring twice to lead Real Madrid to a commanding 3-1 victory. His first goal came from a penalty he earned himself after being brought down by Gerard Piqué, and his second was a towering header that left Barcelona’s defense in shambles. Ronaldo’s clinical finishing and commanding presence secured Real Madrid’s place in the final, solidifying his reputation as a big-game player.
The Shirt Celebration (Real Madrid 2-3 Barcelona, April 23, 2017)
This match was a rollercoaster of emotions, culminating in one of the most iconic moments of Lionel Messi’s career. The stakes were high as Barcelona needed a victory to stay in the title race, while Real Madrid aimed to extend their lead at the top of La Liga.
The match was tied 2-2 heading into injury time when Messi delivered a moment of pure magic. Picking up the ball in the dying seconds, he calmly slotted it past Keylor Navas to secure a dramatic 3-2 victory. The celebration that followed was legendary: Messi removed his shirt and held it aloft to the stunned Bernabéu crowd, as if to say, “Remember my name.” It was a moment of defiance, brilliance, and pure theatre that perfectly encapsulated the rivalry between these two footballing icons.
Will there be more matches?
As Messi continues his career at Inter Miami in the MLS and Ronaldo plays for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, the chances of another meeting between these two legends have diminished. However, the possibility of a charity match, an exhibition game, or even an international fixture cannot be ruled out entirely.
Regardless of whether they face each other again, the Messi-Ronaldo rivalry will forever be remembered as one of the greatest in sports history. Their battles on the pitch, contrasting personalities, and playing styles have left an indelible mark on the game.
In summary
The question of how many times have Messi and Ronaldo played each other is not just about numbers; it’s about the memories, the drama, and the unparalleled quality they brought to each encounter. With 36 matches, over 40 goals, and countless unforgettable moments, their rivalry is a testament to their greatness.
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