Messi and Ronaldo, widely regarded as the two greatest players of their generation, frequently clashed on the pitch in El Clasico battles between Barcelona and Real Madrid. Despite their remarkable records and trophy collections, comparisons between the two have always sparked polarizing debates, especially on social media, where discussions rarely conclude with a consensus favouring both players.
While their playing styles differ—Ronaldo being the powerful, predatory goalscorer, and Messi the technical wizard capable of slicing through and dribbling past entire defences—how are they to deal with for officials?
Honduran referee Said Martinez, who has officiated matches involving both players, shared insights in an interview with Honduran sports paper Diario Diez (quotes via AS).
“They are two totally different personalities, but both are great players,” he began. “I don’t think one stands out over the other,” said Martinez
“Refereeing Messi is a little calmer, he is a player who plays the ball and thinks about his game more than anything else. Cristiano Ronaldo is a little more demonstrative without being disrespectful. But refereeing them is a privilege anyone would like to have. Seeing them both score a free kick is something I will never forget.
“With Messi, we shook hands before the game. I welcomed him and he thanked me. At the end of the game, I also remember that when everyone was chanting his name, he went to shake my hand, I will always remember that.” Martinez added.
“With Cristiano, my anecdote is him complaining to me, confronting me, because I disallowed two of his goals. He didn’t even trust the VAR.”
“Before the start of the second half, I called him over and let him know that I didn’t like the way he had come up to me. He admitted he was wrong, and agreed with me. Then, he focused on playing and scored a phenomenal goal from a free kick that helped his team win.” Martinez concluded.
With Ronaldo now playing for Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr and Messi for MLS side Inter Miami, their interactions have become less frequent. However, they are set to face off, perhaps for the final time as professional footballers, in February 2024 when their respective teams meet in the Riyadh Super Cup.
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