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Xtra Time Web Desk: Lionel Messi on Saturday led Argentina to its 15th Copa America title. Coincidentally it was on the same month and date (July 10, 2016) Cristiano Ronaldo lifted the Euro 2016 title. The two greatest footballers on the universe have now won their first major titles for their country on the same date and that is poetic indeed.

The debate on who is the greatest footballer in contemporary era is bound to gain air after Messi lifted the Copa America title beating arch rivals Brazil 1-0 at the Maracana Stadium.

Cristiano Ronaldo failed to inspire Portugal in Euro 2021 as they lost 0-1 to Portugal in the pre quarter finals. The Portugese striker scored five times in four appearances. In doing so he surpassed Michel Platini as the all time highest goalscorer in European Championships. He ended the tournament with 14 goals under his name.

The Juventus talisman is also the all-time highest goal scorer in international football as he equaled Iranian legend Ali Daei's tally of 109 goals.

Ronaldo’s closest rival Lionel Messi was even more impressive. The Barcelona talisman scored four and five assist in guiding Argentina to Copa America title after 28 years. The Albiceleste won 1-0 in the final against Brazil at Maracana Stadium.

Messi went ahead of Ronaldo in the Ballon d'Or stakes when he won his sixth in 2019 compared to Ronaldo’s five. The Argentine to his credit has 6 European Golden Shoe award compared to Ronaldo’s 4. Messi has also won the World Cup Golden Ball. Ronaldo has an edge over Messi when it comes to winning the Best FIFA Men’s Player award twice, one more than Messi. Ronaldo has also won 4 UEFA Player of the Year award compared to Messi’s 3.