Cristiano Ronaldo vs Kylian Mbappe: Who's the greatest?

As France prepares to face Portugal on Friday in Euro 2024, soccer fans around the globe are eager to witness a clash of titans: Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe. Both players represent the pinnacle of talent and have dominated the sport in their respective eras. This matchup not only promises to be a thrilling game but also offers a compelling opportunity to compare the careers and statistics of these two phenomenal athletes.

Clash of different generations

The 39-year-old Portuguese soccer icon has confirmed that Euro 2024 will be his last European Championship. This declaration adds a layer of finality to his illustrious career, making every match he plays more poignant. Ronaldo‘s emotional performance in Portugal’s penalty-shootout victory over Slovenia in the last 16 highlighted his passion and dedication, as he stated, “It is, without doubt, my last European Championship.” This acknowledgment transforms the upcoming quarterfinal clash against France into a historic encounter, especially considering the opponent: Kylian Mbappe, the rising star poised to inherit Ronaldo’s legacy.

Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappe, the 25-year-old French forward, idolized Ronaldo growing up. A photo circulating on social media captures a young Mbappe standing beside Ronaldo at Real Madrid’s training ground in 2012, a testament to their intertwined destinies. Mbappe has publicly expressed his admiration for Ronaldo, calling him his “idol” on Twitter in 2020. Ronaldo’s encouragement of Mbappe’s move to Real Madrid further cemented their connection. As they prepare to face each other in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals, Mbappe has the potential to end Ronaldo’s European Championship career, adding an intriguing subplot to this global spectacle.

Journey to quarterfinals

Ronaldo enters the match against France with a mixed performance record, having not scored in eight consecutive matches at major tournaments, including the 2022 World Cup and Euro 2024. Despite these struggles, he remains a key player under coach Roberto Martinez. His drive and passion for the game are evident as he stated his motivation is “making people happy,” reflecting his deep connection to the sport and his supporters.

The Frenchman, on the other hand, has faced challenges of his own at Euro 2024. A broken nose in France’s group opener against Austria has forced him to wear a vision-limiting protective facemask. Despite this setback, he managed to score a penalty against Poland, the only goal by a French player in the tournament so far. France’s coach Didier Deschamps acknowledged the difficulty he faces with the mask but expressed confidence in his ability to adapt.

This match is not just a quarterfinal; it’s a historic meeting between two soccer icons representing different generations. Ronaldo, the record scorer in men’s international soccer with 130 goals, is a symbol of consistency and excellence. Mbappe, with 48 international goals and a World Cup hat trick to his name, is rapidly chasing down his idol’s records. The clash in Hamburg is expected to be electrifying, with both players under immense pressure to perform.

Ronaldo’s career achievements

Cristiano Ronaldo, often hailed as one of the greatest footballers of all time, boasts an illustrious career filled with records and accolades.

Major titles

• 7 League Titles (Premier League, La Liga, Serie A)
• 5 UEFA Champions League Titles
• 4 FIFA Club World Cups
• 3 UEFA Super Cups
• 2 Spanish Cups (Copa del Rey)
• English FA Cups 2
• 2 Italian Cups (Coppa Italia)
• 1 UEFA European Championship (2016)
• 1 UEFA Nations League (2019)

Individual awards

• 5 Ballon d’Or Awards
• 4 European Golden Shoes

Kylian Mbappe’s career achievements

Kylian Mbappe, though younger, has already made a significant impact on the world stage with his exceptional speed, skill, and goal-scoring ability.

Major titles

• 5 Ligue 1 Titles
• 3 French Cups (Coupe de France)
• 3 French League Cups (Coupe de la Ligue)
• 4 French Super Cups (Trophée des Champions)
• 1 FIFA World Cup (2018)
• 1 UEFA Nations League (2021)

Individual awards

• FIFA World Cup Best Young Player (2018)
• French Player of the Year (multiple times)
• Ligue 1 Player of the Year (multiple times)
• UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season (multiple times)
• Numerous Player of the Year Awards in England, Spain, and Italy

Comparing the numbers of Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe

Cristiano Ronaldo

Club: 759 goals and 238 assists in 1,013appearances
International: 130 goals and 47 assists in 211 appearances

Kylian Mbappe

Kylian Mbappe, while still in the early stages of his career compared to Ronaldo, has impressive numbers.

Club: 288 goals and 126 assists in 373 appearances
International: 48 goals and 34 assists in 82 appearances

PHOTOS: IMAGO