Ronaldo primed for Messi-matching feat
PARIS - Cristiano Ronaldo looks set to match his great rival Lionel Messi on Thursday night by claiming a fifth Ballon d'Or as recognition for leading Real Madrid to a La Liga and Champions League double last season.
Messi, Barcelona's 30-year-old Argentine superstar, won the coveted award from 2009 to 2012 and in 2015. Portugal's Ronaldo, who is 32, took the honors in 2008, 2013, 2014 and last year.
The man who came to maturity under the watchful eye of former Manchester United coach Alex Ferguson clinched his fourth Ballon d'Or after an unforgettable season, first spearheading Real to the Champions League title before also leading his homeland to Euro 2016 glory in Paris.
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