Messi Moves Clear of Ronaldo With 41 Guinness World Records

• Lionel Messi has further cemented his status as the GOAT of football over Cristiano Ronaldo
• Fans have been divided on who the greatest footballer of the duo is for almost two decades
• It appears Guinness World Records have settled the never-ending debate in favour of Messi

Lionel Messi's claim to the title of the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) has been further solidified by his latest accomplishment, now recognised by Guinness World Records.

The current captain of MLS franchise, Inter Miami, has been engaged in a long-standing rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo, who also skippers Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League.

The two legendary footballers boast a combined total of 12 Ballon d'Or awards, with Messi holding seven titles to the Portuguese star's five, per GOAL.

The Argentine veteran's triumph at the 2022 FIFA World Cup - helping his country win a third Mundial and their first since 1986 - led to the widespread assertion the GOAT debate had finally been settled in his favour.

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While some still argue Ronaldo remains the greatest footballer in the history of the sport, Messi has undoubtedly strengthened his position among the pantheon of the greats, as confirmed by Guinness World Records on Twitter.

Messi currently leads with the most Guinness World Records by a footballer, holding an impressive total of 41 titles. Following closely behind is Cristiano Ronaldo, who has an admirable count of 40 records to his name.

The third spot on the list is occupied by Barcelona's Robert Lewandowski, who has earned nine records, while the embattled Paris Saint-Germain duo of Kylian Mbappe and Neymar Junior hold five and four, respectively.

Messi's goal rescues Inter Miami

Meanwhile, Messi came to Inter Miami's rescue again, scoring a stunning free kick to tie the match against FC Dallas.

The Argentine wizard curled in his effort from 25 yards out into the top corner to send fans at Toyota Stadium into a frenzy.

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It was yet another stunning goal by Messi, who scored his second goal of the night and his seventh in the Leagues Cup.

Messi reveals his GOAT stance

Sports Brief also reported on Messi discussing the GOAT debate as fans continue to argue on whether the Argentine star or his famed adversary, Ronaldo is superior.

While the discussion almost exclusively revolves around the 2022 World Cup winner and the Portuguese phenom, Messi had an interesting take on the situation.