How Ronaldo caught up with Messi

Each to their own, Ronaldo and Messi are going to end a prolific 2017 having won the two most important individual awards. The Argentine won the Golden Shoe handed to Europe's top goalscorer, while the Portuguese striker will add a fifth Ballon d'Or to his trophy cabinet.

The year 2017 will come to an end with Ronaldo and Messi both on five Ballon d'or awards and four Golden Shoes each. Not long ago, Messi was so far ahead it seemed impossible for Ronaldo to narrow the gap. Against all odds, he has done just that.

Just five years ago, in 2012, Ronaldo watched on as Messi received his fourth Ballon d'Or, while the Madrid star was stuck on one. Since then, the Portuguese striker has fought back admirably, clinching four of the last five awards.

Having lifted four Champions Leagues each, La Liga titles (eight for Messi and two for Ronaldo) tilt the balance in favour of the Argentine when it comes to collective trophies. Because when the pair go head to head in individual awards, they are on a par.