Incredible Stat Reveals Just How Similar Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo's Careers Have Been

Comparisons between the two best players of the 21st century have become common discussion amongst football fans - yet the most recent discovery has sparked

Comparisons between the two best players of the 21st century have become common discussion amongst football fans - yet the most recent discovery has sparked more debate than ever before.

That intriguing stat? Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo find themselves exactly level when their combined goals and assists are tallied; both with 812 to their name. While the pair are neck and neck still though, Messi has achieved the feat in 155 fewer games.

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Revealed by messivsronaldo.net, the stats display that both players are currently even for goal contributions at the time of writing.

Both Messi and Ronaldo frequently play down the rivalry created by the media between them. Back in May, Ronaldo said: "I like to see all good players and Messi is one of them. He is a player. I really enjoy seeing him on the pitch and all the great players"

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Messi returned the favour this summer saying: "I have always said it - and [Ronaldo] from his part - that he is armed with the presence of us both. He is a phenomenal player with a lot of quality. All the world knows, and that is why he is one of the best of the world"

While Ronaldo had the most successful 2017 in terms of honours, winning the double last season - the way Messi has started the season means he is likely to be the highest scoring of the two in 2017. Scoring 14 goals thus far this season, compared to Ronaldo's five - Messi has eclipsed Ronaldo entirely, scoring 68 goals this calendar year.