One of the biggest topics of debate in the soccer world right now is who the best soccer player in the world is. There are two more popular schools of thought when it comes to this heated topic, and most refuse to waver in their allegiances. No matter who your favorite or who you think is the best soccer player in the world, we found some interesting statistics and wanted to show you exactly how close these two soccer greats are to each other. These statistics are compiled since the 2009-10 season and combine league and champions league stats.

Who is the Greatest? Lionel Messi Vs. Cristiano Ronaldo
League & Champions League Since 2009-10
Lionel Messi	Cristiano Ronaldo
197 Appearances 193 217 Goals 206 1.10 Goals Per Game 1.07 8 Headers 24 26 Penalties 39 10 Free Kicks 21

The numbers are way too close to provide a definitive answer as to who is currently the best soccer player in the world. Despite the lack of a clear winner there is one thing that all soccer & sports fans alike can agree on – This is an incredible time to be a fan of soccer! Never before have we had a battle of two great soccer players quite like the one that we are experiencing right now. Furthermore, you will be hard pressed to find another pair of dueling sportsmen throughout history in any sport quite as entertaining to watch. Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo both provide some of the most entertaining moments in soccer history, and we get to see the extraordinary highlights from both of them day in and day out.

Throw your allegiances aside and take a moment to appreciate the amazing soccer that we all get to see from two of the most talented individuals to ever play the game. Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have certainly graced the soccer world with their presence and as lucky fans, we will continue to reap the rewards in the form of pure athletic bliss.