Cristiano Ronaldo vs. Lionel Messi is the favorite debate among fans of international soccer. While both stars have a claim to the throne of who is best in the world, Messi appeared to nose ahead with his spectacular goal in extra time vs. Iran that gave Argentina a 1-0 victory on Saturday afternoon. However, in the late match on Sunday, Ronaldo played a major role in what may be the iconic moment of the 2014 World Cup.
With USA leading 2-1 deep into the match, Ronaldo streaked down the right side of the pitch as the seconds in extra time (five minutes) were winding down. Ronaldo, guarded, fired off a picturesque cross to Silvestre Varela, who reacted quickly and sent an equally perfect header past U.S. goalkeeper Tim Howard to tie it up. The match ended seconds later with no further action.
The victory saved Portugal from elimination, and kept the Americans from advancing; while the Yankees are still in good shape to reach the Round of 16, they have a very difficult match coming up with Germany who is the top-ranked side in the "Group of Death" that is Group G.
The first round of the World Cup isn't even over yet, but Messi and Ronaldo have both authored memorable moments. Messi's got two goals in two games, both wins for Argentina over Bosnia-Herzegovina and Iran respectively. Ronaldo, on the other hand, has zero goals and just one assist while Portugal has yet to notch a victory in the Group stage.
Statistically, Messi may have snuck ahead with the statistical advantage, but none of this can be decided until the World Cup has been lifted by the victorious side. Even then, and even if Argentina or Portugal manages to win it all, the debate will still rage on.
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