Can Cristiano Ronaldo achieve what Lionel Messi could not?

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have been chasing elusive international glory without success. But it can change on Sunday if Ronaldo-led Portugal go on and win Euro 2016 final in Paris.

Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo. Pic/AP, PTI

Who is better, Ronaldo or Messi? It's an endless debate among fans of two greatest footballers in the planet.

Both won almost everything there is to be won in club football but at the international level Messi and Ronaldo are yet to win a single trophy.

Last week, Messi missed a penalty during a shootout in the Copa America final against Chile, which was his fourth loss in international finals in Argentinan colours. The failure to win finals prompted the great Messi to announce international retirement.

Argentina's Lionel Messi. Pic/AFP

Ronaldo, on the other hand has had lesser success with only one final and two semi-finals in Portugese jersey.

However, Ronaldo has the chance to achieve international glory, perhaps his last chance as Portugal made it to the final of Euro 2016 and await the winner of France and Germany.

If Ronaldo delivers on Sunday to help Portugal lift the Euro 2016 cup, he will finally accomplish his dream of winning a big tournament in national colours, a feat that Messi may never achieve, if the latter stays out of international football for good.

Will Sunday be Ronaldo's night? Germany or France stand between his dreams.

International record (As of 6 July 2016)

Cristiano Ronaldo
Team: Portugal
Debut: 20 August 2003
Appearances: 132
Goals: 61

Lionel Messi
Team: Argentina
Debut: 17 August 2005
Appearances: 113
Goals: 55

Also read - Euro 2016: Cristiano Ronaldo, Nani fire as Portugal beat Wales to enter final