Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. The two superstars have each been the top contenders to win the Ballon d'Or in the last five years. But which is the front-runner for the next award?
In 2013, Ronaldo outscored Messi by a healthy margin and put together his best numbers in the final four months of the year. He scored 18 goals in the first few months of the Spanish League while also adding seven goals for Portugal and nine in the Champions League. He already has three goals in his first few matches in 2014, but will need to continue his pace at the end of the year to maintain the momentum early on in 2014.
Meanwhile, Messi has two goals thus far in 2014. He could potentially put together tremendous numbers like he did in 2012 when he scored 92, but it is more likely that he will not reach that feat. In fact, it is more likely that the two score at a similar pace.
So what will determine which of the two stars is the winner of the trophy in 2014?
Trophies will likely play a huge role. Both Real Madrid and Barcelona are in prime position to win the Spanish League and Copa del Rey in 2014; the Champions League is a loftier goal, especially with the play of Bayern Munich.
The other major determinant could be the World Cup. Argentina is one of the favorites to win the trophy in 2014 due to its "home field" advantage. The fact that Argentina wound up in an easy group only adds to the team's favoritism. Even if Argentina does not win the cup, the easy group will allow the Messi to pad his goal scoring stats.
Ronaldo's Portugal is not a favorite (and has never been one) so it is unlikely that the superstar gets the chance to claim the title. However, Ronaldo is in a tough group and may struggle to score goals. The World Cup, and the two stars performances in it, will likely be the tipping point in 2014. And so far it looks good for Messi.
Who is the favorite to win the Ballon d'Or in 2014?
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