After he scored in Paris Saint-Germain's win in Ligue 1 on Wednesday, Lionel Messi has equalled an incredible record set by his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo.
PSG Boss Heaps Praise On Messi After He Scores On Return
The 35-year-old found the back of the net for the 13th time this season as the French giants recorded a relatively comfortable 2-0 victory over Angers at the Parc des Princes.
Messi's goal marked his return to action for the Ligue 1 champions following his exploits at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, a strike that carries great significance in relation to one of the sport's most heated debates.
The Argentine has now scored 696 goals for clubs playing in Europe's top five leagues, drawing level with Ronaldo. This is according to the Daily Mirror, who pointed out that Messi is two years younger than his long-time counterpart.
Most Goals scored in all club competitions for clubs in Europe's Top 5 Leagues...???? Messi: 696 ???????? Ronaldo: 696 ?? pic.twitter.com/AmABAKSPah
— Barça Worldwide (@BarcaWorldwide) January 11, 2023
Ronaldo left Europe earlier this month to join Saudi Arabian giants Al Nassr after netting 145 times for Manchester United, 450 times for Real Madrid and 101 times for Juventus.
Ronaldo 'Stuns' Al Nassr Teammates In Training
The 37-year-old did score five goals for Sporting Lisbon prior to his 2003 transfer to the Red Devils, meaning Messi is still five strikes away from equalling Ronaldo's overall European record.
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments
WATCH VIDEO: