It is a conflict that has rambled on for many years now and will continue for decades after both players retire; Messi or Ronaldo?
It is too tough a question for many to decide - like "comparing a porsche to a ferrari". But for the past four years, those behind the Ballon d'Or have vetoed for the little Argentian.
However with Messi's current dip in form and Ronaldo's sublime play this season, the decision seems much more straight forward.
Cristiano Ronaldo has scored more goals this season (24) than Messi and Neymar (18) have managed collectively. Also consider that nine of these have been in the last four games.
Quite simply without Ronaldo, Madrid would be lucky to find themselves in the top five of the Spanish League - he has dragged them up the table.
We will see in the coming 6 - 8 weeks how good Barcelona are without Messi, as he is out with a hamstring injury.
With Lionel missing in action, this will give Ronaldo even more time to prove he deserves the Ballon d'Or this year.
