16 years, five World Cups, two incredible players, and a story that's still not over yet. Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have defined a generation, starring in the tournaments in 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018 and now in 2022. Here we reflect on how their looks have changed over the years.
Ronaldo recently set the record as the first man to score in five World Cup tournaments when he netted from the spot against Ghana. While Messi was unable to match that, given his blank in 2010, the Argentinian quickly set his own record for assists, having set up at least one goal in the last five World Cups. They really are two of the greatest players that the game has ever seen, and at 37 and 35 years old respectively, the tournament in Qatar could well be their last. Never say never though...
Of course, Messi and Ronaldo are not alone with 2022 being their fifth World Cup, so an honourable mention for Mexican Andrés Guardado (N.B. although part of the squad in 2006 and 2010, his teammate Guillermo Ochoa didn't actually make an appearance in either tournament). But the focus here is on the two legends of the game, with a nod at how their respective styles have changed over the years; from haircuts to boots, balls to kits, it's a legacy that will live on forever. And let's remember, they're still not done yet...
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2006 – Germany
6 Appearances
1 Goal
0 Assists
Boot:Â Nike Mercurial Vapor III
3 Appearances
1 Goal
1 Assist
Boot: adidas F30 TUNiT
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2010 – South Africa
4 Appearances
1 Goal
1 Assist
Boot: Nike Mercurial Vapor Superfly II
5 Appearances
0 Goals
1 Assist
Boot: adidas adizero F50
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2014 – Brazil
3 Appearances
1 Goal
1 Assist
Boot: Nike Mercurial Superfly IV
7 Appearances
4 Goals
1 Assist
Boot: adidas adizero F50 Messi 'Battle Pack'
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2018 – Russia
4 Appearances
4 Goals
0 Assists
Boot:Â Nike Mercurial Superfly VI
4 Appearances
1 Goal
2 Assists
Boot: adidas Messi Nemeziz 18.1
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2022 – Qatar
Ongoing...
Appearances: 2
Goals: 1
Assists: 0
Boots: Nike Air Zoom Mercurial Superfly IX CR7
Ongoing...
Appearances: 2
Goals: 1
Assists: 1
Boots: adidas X Speedportal 'Leyenda'
Shop Messi and Ronaldo signature edition boots at prodirectsport.com/soccer