10 years of the greatest rivalry in modern football

An entire decade has gone by between the two photos. Both superstars of world football have changed much physically, but in the sporting aspect things remain unaltered.

Taking turns to claim silver or gold, the pair have given us a decade of brilliant moments, an infinity of trophies and what is most important, mutual respect and a huge admiration for each other.

'The Best', which went under the name of 'FIFA Ballon d'Or' for many years, practically levelled the odds by which the two great stars of a generation are measured. Messi has one more Ballon d'Or to his name (5 for the Argentine, 4 for the Portuguese star), Ronaldo was named best player by UEFA once more than the Barca man (4 times Ronaldo, Messi 3). When it comes to Golden Boots, they both have four.

Both Ronaldo and Messi have enjoyed a similar number of collective triumphs throughout their careers. Four Champions Leagues each, five league titles for Ronaldo and eight for Messi, three UEFA Super Cups and three Club World Cups each... the one difference is with their national teams. Ronaldo lifted the European Championships trophy (and reached the final in 2004) while Messi has not yet been able to celebrate with Argentina, despite playing in numerous finals.

However, now is not the time for comparisons. Football is there to be enjoyed and these two legends, who have already marked a generation, continue to put up a good fight.