Overview

• Lionel Messi scored a stunning free kick to secure Inter Miami’s 2-1 victory over FC Porto in the Club World Cup 2025 group stage in Atlanta.
• After the match, Messi stated that he and Cristiano Ronaldo “are not friends” off the pitch and have never spent time together outside competition.
• He emphasized that their bond is built on mutual respect forged through years of direct rivalry in La Liga.
• Cristiano Ronaldo, now 40 and playing for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, remains highly competitive as he chases 1,000 career goals.
• Between them, Messi and Ronaldo have won 13 Ballon d’Or awards and continue to rank among football’s most decorated players despite playing in separate leagues.