The Ronaldo-Messi Saga is not new to controversy. Even after their departure from Europe Football, their fans & moments on the field in their prime continue an ongoing debate to this day. Whether it be trophies, goals or statistics, it’s the all out battle to decide who’s the GOAT of World Football amongst the two giants of the game.
The Background:
During the second encounter of El Clásico in the 2016/2017 season, Barcelona emerged victorious with a 3-2 triumph over Madrid at the Bernabéu stadium. The defining moment came in the 92nd minute when Messi secured a dramatic last-minute goal, sealing the victory. In a burst of jubilation mixed with intensity, Messi sprinted towards the corner, removed his jersey, and boldly displayed his name on the back to the cheering fans, his expression a blend of confidence and controlled frustration.
Naturally, the taunt didn’t sit well with Madrid fans, but it did create an iconic Clásico moment that would be forever recorded in history.
His first goal, a 33rd-minute equalizer, negated Casemiro’s initial strike. Barcelona then secured the lead in the 73rd minute and appeared to be headed for victory until James Rodriguez’s late goal five minutes from the end. Yet, in stoppage time, Messi shattered Madrid’s hopes as he capitalized on a clever assist from Jordi Alba, skillfully placing the ball beyond Keylor Navas’s grasp.
However, there was a minor price to pay for choosing to intensify the frustration of both Real Madrid players and their supporters. Referee Alejandro Hernandez admonished the Argentine with a yellow card for his act of removing the jersey in celebration.
Watch: Messi’s El Clásico Celebration.
The Revenge Next Season:
In the showdown of the Supercopa de España between Real Madrid and Barcelona, Ronaldo made a formidable entrance, leaving every Barcelona teammate shattered in his wake.
Entering the game in the 58th minute, Ronaldo swiftly demonstrated his prowess by unleashing a stunning shot that found the back of the net in the 80th minute, altering the score to 2-1. As he celebrated his achievement, he received a yellow card for the exuberant act of removing his shirt and flexing his muscles in the direction of Barcelona’s devoted fans. I
It was clear – his act at camp Nou was in defiance and a dig at Messi’s previous celebration. Much to the anger of the Camp Nou crowd – it saw the away fans scream in joy knowing the plain mockery that had just occurred.
