Messi Equals Ronaldo’s Goals in Europe After Scoring in His First Game for PSG World Cup Glory

• Lionel Messi has drawn level with Cristiano Ronaldo's goals feat in Europe's top five leagues
• The Argentine veteran reached 696 goals after scoring on his return to club action with PSG
• The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner could pass the new Al-Nassr signing as soon as Sunday

Lionel Messi chalked yet another remarkable landmark on his return to club action, after guiding Argentina to World Cup triumph.

Messi scored the second goal for Paris Saint-Germain in his side's 2-0 win over Angers on Wednesday night at the Parc des Princes.

The 35-year-old playmaker took his total tally in Europe's top leagues to an outstanding total of 696, equalling Cristiano Ronaldo's feat.

How Messi reached his landmark

Messi bagged an eyewatering 672 goals in 778 appearances for FC Barcelona, where he spent over two decades of his professional career.

Al-Nassr boss risks upsetting Ronaldo after Messi comments

Football

The remainder of his tally (24 goals) have been racked up at PSG and he could overtake his nemesis as early as January 15, when Les Parisiens face Rennes, Sky Sports reports.

The ex-Barcelona superstar only trails Ronaldo by five in total club goals, with the race between the duo now on to see who racks the most career goals, before inevitably calling time on their illustrious careers.

Messi scores on PSG return

Messi marked his return to club football in style, scoring in his first post-World Cup match for PSG in the French Ligue 1.

The 35-year-old world champion found the back of the net as his club returned to winning ways, posting a 2-0 victory over Angers on Wednesday evening.

Messi did what he does best, influencing the game as the seven-time Ballon d'Or stroked home from close range to double PSG's lead.

Messi: World Cup winner jets off to Paris after extended holidays

Football

Messi offered a tempting deal

Sports Brief earlier reported that Saudi Arabia’s top club, Al Hilal has offered to continue the rivalry between Messi and Ronaldo in the Middle East.

The two veterans are considered lifelong rivals, and battled for every top trophy and award in Europe before the ex-Manchester United man joined Al-Nassr in December 2022.

According to Barca Universal, Al Hilal - Al-Nassr’s biggest rival - has now offered Messi a mega $300-million per year deal to face Ronaldo in the Saudi Arabian top flight.