Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi both named the toughest opponents they have ever faced.
Messi and Ronaldo are widely regarded as among the greatest players in history, with the pair collectively claiming 13 Ballon d’Ors.
While football’s most accomplished defenders have failed to stop one on many occasions, a select few have managed to get the better of the superstar duo.
Ronaldo once admitted that former England, Chelsea and Arsenal left-back Ashley Cole was the toughest opponent he had ever faced.
The pair have faced off on several occasions while playing in the Premier League and while on international duty between England and Portugal.
“I’ve had some big battles with Ashley Cole over the years,” Ronaldo told Coach Mag. “He doesn’t even give you a second to breathe.
“When he was at his peak he was such a determined player, quick in the tackle, tough. You knew it was never going to be an easy game.”
Meanwhile, Messi’s toughest rival is not that famous.
Speaking back in 2020, Messi said four four two: “Pablo Maffeo of Verona was the toughest. I’ve never been one to complain, but he [match] It was intense!”
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner was referring to Barcelona’s 3-0 win over Verona in 2017, when the 20-year-old Maffeo, who was on loan from Manchester City at the time, man-marked him.
Speaking after the game, the defender, who now plays for Mallorca, explained (via quote ). GiveMeSport): “Messi said to me: ‘I’ve had you here for the whole day’ and I said: ‘You’re the best in the world, I’m not going to leave you.
Ronaldo has said that Cole was his toughest opponent (Getty)
“He asked me how old I was, whether I had been recruited by Manchester City and how it was there. He said the marking was not pleasant.
“Messi and I were together throughout the match. He asked me some things. He is a nice person.”
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