Throughout the years, Ronaldo and Messi have frequently competed at the highest level.
Their most intense encounters occurred when Ronaldo was at Real Madrid and Messi was at Barcelona. ..Continue Reading
These two legends will always be remembered as some of the greatest to have ever graced the game, with a combined total of 13 Ballon d’Or awards between them.
Both players have faced many of the world’s best talents, but were there any that particularly stood out?
Ronaldo has mentioned that former England, Chelsea, and Arsenal left-back Ashley Cole was the toughest opponent he ever encountered.
The two faced off numerous times during their Premier League careers and in international matches between England and Portugal.
“Over the years I had some great battles with Ashley Cole”, Ronaldo told Coach Mag. “He does not give you a second to breathe.
“He was such a tenacious player when he was at his peak, quick, tough in the tackle. You knew it would never be an easy game.”
However, Messi’s toughest opponent is not quite as famous.
Speaking back in 2020, Messi said via FourFourTwo: “Pablo Maffeo of Girona was the toughest. I’ve never been one who complains, but that [match] was intense!”
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner was referring to Barcelona’s 3-0 victory over the Girona back in 2017, when 20-year-old Maffeo, who was then on loan from Manchester City, man-marked him.
Speaking after the match, the defender, who now plays for Mallorca, explained (quotes via GiveMeSport): “Messi told me: ‘I’ve got you here for the whole day’ and I said: ’You’re the best in the world, I’m not going to leave you.
“He asked me how old I was, if I had been assigned by Manchester City and what it was like there. He said the marking was not pleasant.
“Messi and I were together the whole match. He has asked me a couple of things. He is a good person.”
