Can Messi break Ronaldo goal record? CWC history within reach

Lionel Messi is once again on the brink of making history, with Cristiano Ronaldo’s Club World Cup goal record now firmly in his sights. The Argentine maestro recently scored a spectacular free-kick in Inter Miami’s win over Porto, raising his tally in the competition to six goals. That strike moves him level with Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema, both of whom also scored six times during their Club World Cup careers with Real Madrid.

Cristiano Ronaldo, however, still leads the all-time Club World Cup scoring charts with seven goals four for Real Madrid and three for Manchester United. But with Messi now just one behind, the stage is set for another classic chapter in their long-running battle for footballing supremacy. The GOAT debate has always involved comparing major records and trophies between the two icons, and this is yet another front where Messi is threatening to surpass Ronaldo.

Messi previously scored five goals in the Club World Cup with Barcelona. His latest for Inter Miami shows that even in the twilight of his career, he remains one of the world’s deadliest players. The Argentine captain’s sharp eye for goal and ability to deliver on the big stage means Ronaldo’s lead is far from secure. With Inter Miami still in the tournament, more opportunities will come.

see also: Jobe Bellingham Scores First Goal for Borussia Dortmund in Thrilling 4-3 Club World Cup Win

Inter Miami’s next Club World Cup match will see them take on Palmeiras in their final group stage encounter at Hard Rock Stadium. A win or draw will see the Major League Soccer side progress to the round of 16, giving Lionel Messi more chances to write history. Messi’s current six-goal tally puts him just one behind Cristiano Ronaldo, and two more would see him claim the outright record for most goals in the tournament’s history.

Palmeiras will not be an easy opponent, representing one of South America’s strongest teams. However, with Messi leading the line and in strong form after his goal against Porto, Inter Miami have every reason to believe in their chances. The team’s progress in the tournament will largely hinge on Messi’s performances, as he continues to inspire his teammates with moments of brilliance.

Other players also remain in the hunt. Luis Suarez, a former teammate of Messi’s at Barcelona and now also part of Inter Miami’s squad, has five goals in the competition. Should he find his scoring touch, he too could challenge for the top spot.

For Messi, though, this is personal. His long-standing rivalry with Ronaldo has shaped the last two decades of global football. Breaking Ronaldo’s record at the Club World Cup would be another symbolic win in their storied rivalry. With global eyes watching, Messi could soon stand alone at the top of yet another historic list.

The countdown to Monday’s clash with Palmeiras is on, and fans around the world will be watching closely. Can Messi do it? The answer may be just one magical moment away.