On Thursday, the world’s two best footballers, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, went head-to-head in an exhibition match in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The event was held in the King Fahd International Stadium and was attended by a lucky fan who won a VIP ticket to the match in an auction, which raised over 2.6 million dollars for charity. The match was also Ronaldo’s first since leaving Manchester United and signing with Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr.
The match featured Paris Saint-Germain and Messi facing a select side made up of players from Al Hilal and Ronaldo’s new club, Al Nassr. The winning fan of the VIP ticket was given the opportunity to meet both Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi, as well as access to the team dressing rooms and trophy award.
The GOATs in the Gulf demonstration game took place on Thursday night and pitted Messi’s Paris Saint-Germain against a Riyadh Season Team that included Ronaldo, who had just joined the Saudi Pro League. Although it wasn’t nearly Real Madrid vs. Barcelona or Portugal vs. Argentina, the two longtime rivals nevertheless carried out their routine. They achieved success. In the end, Messi scored one goal and Ronaldo scored two in a game that PSG won 5-4. Both players were replaced after an hour.
In the other hand we saw old friends Cristiano Ronaldo & Ramos meeting before the match started. Kylian Mbappe was not very sharp while Neymar Jr missed a penalty, Mbappe converted a penalty on the second half of the big game!
Cristiano Ronaldo Man Of The Match
Outside of the actual match, the event was also a chance to see two of the greatest footballers in history together on the pitch for what may be the last time. Fans of Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo were in attendance throughout the stadium, and there was a palpable sense of excitement in the air.
The event was also a reflection of the changing landscape of football, with Saudi Arabia being an increasingly important part of the sport. The money raised from the auction of the VIP ticket went to charity, and the event was an opportunity for the country to show it is a major player in the football world.
Overall, the match between Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in Riyadh was a fitting end to a rivalry that has captivated the football world for the past decade. Fans around the world were treated to something special, and it’s a moment that will be remembered for years to come.
