Cristiano Ronaldo's Most Iconic Rivalries on the International Stage
Cristiano Ronaldo, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, has forged a remarkable career characterized by numerous rivalries that have captivated fans worldwide. On the international stage, Ronaldo has faced off against several formidable opponents who have pushed him to his limits and added to the allure of his legendary status.
Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Arguably Ronaldo's most iconic rivalry, the battle between him and Lionel Messi has transcended the boundaries of football. The two players have dominated the game for over a decade, constantly vying for individual and team accolades. Their rivalry has fueled the intense competition between their respective clubs, Real Madrid and Barcelona, as well as the bitter rivalry between their home countries, Portugal and Argentina.
On the international stage, Ronaldo and Messi have never faced each other directly, but their indirect clashes have been no less memorable. In the 2014 World Cup final, Ronaldo's Portugal lost to Messi's Argentina, while in the 2018 World Cup, Messi led Argentina to a decisive victory over Ronaldo's Portugal in the round of 16.
Sergio Ramos (Spain)
Sergio Ramos, the former Real Madrid and Spain captain, has been another formidable rival for Ronaldo. The two players have clashed both at club and international level, with Ramos often being tasked with the unenviable job of marking Ronaldo. Their rivalry is characterized by mutual respect and admiration, but also by intense competition and occasional altercations on the pitch.
Ronaldo and Ramos have faced each other on numerous occasions, including the 2012 Champions League semi-final, where Ramos scored a crucial goal against Ronaldo's Manchester United. In 2018, Ronaldo's Portugal defeated Ramos' Spain in the round of 16 of the World Cup, with Ronaldo scoring a spectacular hat-trick.
Antoine Griezmann (France)
Ronaldo and Griezmann also clashed in the 2018 World Cup, where France defeated Portugal in the final. Griezmann scored a penalty in the match, adding to the rivalry between the two players.
Neymar (Brazil)
Neymar, the Brazilian forward, has emerged as another notable rival for Ronaldo. The two players have faced each other in both club and international competitions, with each encounter generating significant hype and anticipation.
In the 2013 Confederations Cup, Ronaldo's Portugal defeated Neymar's Brazil in the final, with Ronaldo scoring a brace. Four years later, in the 2017 Confederations Cup, Brazil got their revenge by defeating Portugal in the semi-final, with Neymar playing a key role.