What Lionel Messi Fans Are Saying About Cristiano Ronaldo After His 2026 World Cup Exit
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Cristiano Ronaldo’s exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup has once again reignited football’s biggest debate with Messi fans: who is the Greatest of All Time (GOAT)?
For nearly two decades, Ronaldo and Messi have dominated world football, breaking records, winning major trophies and building one of the fiercest rivalries in sports history.
While many believe Messi strengthened his GOAT claim after leading Argentina to the 2022 FIFA World Cup title, millions of Ronaldo supporters continue to point to the Portuguese star’s incredible goalscoring record, longevity and achievements.
Following Portugal’s elimination from the 2026 World Cup, I spoke to several football fans who support Messi to hear what they think about Ronaldo and his legacy.
Their opinions ranged from humorous jabs to honest criticism, while a few acknowledged his remarkable career.
The GOAT Rivalry that Has Divided Football
The rivalry between Messi and Ronaldo dates back to their years in Spain, when Messi starred for Barcelona while Ronaldo played for Real Madrid.
Together, they have won 13 Ballon d’Or awards, dominated European football for more than 15 years and inspired millions of fans around the world.
Although Messi has won the FIFA World Cup with Argentina, Ronaldo remains the highest official goalscorer in men’s football history.
The Portuguese forward has scored an incredible 976 goals in 1,330 appearances during his remarkable 23-year professional career.
Messi, meanwhile, has scored 919 goals in 1,161 appearances, while also establishing himself as one of the greatest playmakers the game has ever seen.
Despite their incredible achievements, the debate over who is the greatest player of all time continues to divide football fans.
Also Read:OPINION: Is the GOAT Debate Finally Over? Why Messi Now Stands Alone
Messi Fans React to Ronaldo’s World Cup Exit
One fan, Ezekiel, jokingly said,”Endeni mchinje mbuzi mkule.”
Joshua praised Ronaldo’s effort but pointed to the one trophy that has always escaped him.
“Ronaldo did try his best but failed to achieve the World Cup goal.”
Steve Wonder said, “Aende aretire.”
Francis admitted he has never been a Ronaldo supporter.
“I am not a fan of him, juu ya kiburi mingi.”
Vicky was even more critical.
“Ni mtu mwingine fake, anataka kubebwa, habebi team, si kama Messi.”
Another fan, Aurah, said Ronaldo’s exit was always expected.
“Never in doubt, inevitable. He had to just go home. It was a matter of time. In fact, mafans wake wanafaa watuambie kama alifika safe.”
Junior said, “Ronaldo is shit.”
Some Fans Acknowledged Ronaldo’s Greatness
Not every fan dismissed Ronaldo’s achievements.
Bruno praised the Portuguese captain’s career but believes Messi remains ahead.
“He is a good player, a talented footballer, and has had a wonderful career. Unfortunately, winning the World Cup became a problem. Messi is better than him.”
Amos sympathised with Ronaldo.
“I felt sorry for Ronaldo despite his hard work.”
Former footballer Jackson revealed that Ronaldo once inspired him.
“I was once a footballer who was inspired by Ronaldo, but, unfortunately, he exited the World Cup earlier. Messi plays a fantastic game and he’s a team player.”
Also Read: The Business of Football Betting During World Cup Season
Other Fans Question Ronaldo’s Attitude
Several fans argued that Ronaldo’s personality has affected how they view him.
Ian said, “There are levels in this game. A true GOAT steps up for his country when needed. His attitude is bad.”
Elisha admitted that Ronaldo’s elimination made him happy.
“It soothes my heart when I eat and realize that Ronaldo is not in the World Cup, naongeza ugali.”
Blake gave a lengthy explainer of Ronaldo’s club career.
“When Ronaldo was at Real Madrid, he was a team player. Then at Manchester United, there was a lot of competition and he had no impact. At Juventus, he found weak players and began dominating, being at the center. Ako na kiburi, he’s just like any other player. In Portugal, all players are great and everyone wants to shine, not waiting to be fed. The GOAT thing entered his head, not minding his fellow players. He’s a selfish player.”
Hayden also compared Ronaldo’s leadership with Messi’s.
“Ronaldo has a lot of pride. When Messi was asked at the post-match interview about Argentina’s performance, he said, ‘we.’But Ronaldo normally uses ‘I.’ He has main character syndrome. Ronaldo doesn’t acknowledge his fellow players.”
“One of the Greatest Goalscorers, but not the GOAT”
Another fan, Shack, praised Ronaldo’s achievements but insisted Messi stands above him.
“Ronaldo is a great player, he has a great legacy, but nowhere near the level of Lionel Messi. He is not a team player; he’s selfish on the pitch. He will go down as one of the greatest goalscorers of all time, but not the greatest of all time.”
The reactions keep showing that the rivalry between Ronaldo and Messi will continue to shape conversations among football fans in the years to come.
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Argentina captain Lionel Messi lifts the FIFA World Cup trophy after his team’s victory over France in the 2022 World Cup final. PHOTO/Sky Sports News
