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Cristiano Ronaldo vs Pele in statistics: the eternal football debate

Explore the statistical comparison between Cristiano Ronaldo and Pele. Which legend holds the greatest numbers?

By Angel Carrillo Hernández

Cristiano y Pele | Photos: @Cristiano and @Pele
Cristiano y Pele | Photos: @Cristiano and @Pele
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The comparison between Cristiano Ronaldo and Pele has fueled debates for decades in the football world. These two players defined their respective eras, breaking records and leaving legacies that seem unmatched. While one thrived on a global stage with the rise of media, the other dominated during an era where raw talent spoke for itself. Below, we analyze their statistics and achievements based on data updated through 2025.

Goals and assists

Cristiano Ronaldo, with a career that has pushed the limits of longevity in football, has reached the historic milestone of 900 official goals, making him the all-time top scorer in the sport’s history. In contrast, Pele scored 767 goals in official competitions according to verified records, standing out as an icon of efficiency during his era.

In assists, Pele surpasses Cristiano Ronaldo with 361 recorded assists compared to Ronaldo’s 283. This showcases the playmaking abilities of both players, albeit in different proportions.

Titles and achievements

Both players have accomplished unique feats in their careers. Pele won three World Cups with the Brazilian national team in 1958, 1962, and 1970—a record no other player has matched. Additionally, he secured regional and national titles with Santos, solidifying his legacy in Latin America.

Cristiano Ronaldo, on the other hand, has shone particularly in European club football, winning the UEFA Champions League five times and achieving league titles in England, Spain, and Italy. With the Portuguese national team, his greatest accomplishments include the 2016 European Championship and the 2019 UEFA Nations League. While these trophies do not compare to a World Cup, they highlight Ronaldo’s impact on a national team with less footballing tradition.

Individual awards

Pele was named Best Young Player at the 1958 World Cup and won the Golden Ball for the tournament in 1970. He was also a top scorer in multiple editions of the Campeonato Paulista, reaffirming his dominance in Brazilian football.

Cristiano Ronaldo, meanwhile, has received numerous international accolades, including five Ballon d’Or awards and four European Golden Shoes as the top scorer in European leagues. These honors, alongside others like The Best FIFA Men’s Player award, establish him as one of the most prominent figures in football history.

International appearances

Pele participated in four World Cup editions, winning three of them. His impact in these tournaments was pivotal, both for his goals and his overall influence on the game. Cristiano Ronaldo, in contrast, has played in five World Cups, with his best result being a semifinal finish in 2006. While he has not secured a World Cup title, his consistency in international competitions has kept Portugal competitive on the global stage.

Longevity and consistency

Cristiano Ronaldo continues to compete at the highest level at 39 years old, exemplifying dedication and professionalism. His adaptability to different leagues and footballing contexts is a testament to his greatness. Pele, by comparison, retired from professional football in 1977, but his impact transcends statistics, as he is remembered as a legend who defined an era.

What you need to know about Cristiano Ronaldo and Pele

  • Goals: Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 900 official goals, surpassing Pele’s 767.
  • World Cups: Pele won three World Cups, while Ronaldo claimed the Euro 2016 and Nations League titles with Portugal.
  • Individual accolades: Ronaldo has won five Ballon d’Or awards, dominating Europe, while Pele excelled with awards in Brazil and World Cups.
  • Legacy: Both players are icons of their respective eras, each leaving a unique and enduring legacy.

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