5 reasons why Lionel Messi could outshine Cristiano Ronaldo in the UEFA Champions League this season

Barcelona v Real Madrid - La Liga
Barcelona playmaker - Lionel Messi

#4 Ronaldo's terrible start

Valencia v Juventus - UEFA Champions League Group H
Ronaldo was sent off following a clash with Murillo in his Champions League debut for Juventus

After Lionel Messi ran riot in Barcelona's opening fixture against PSV on Tuesday, all eyes became fixed on Cristiano Ronaldo to respond with a magical performance in his Champions League debut for Juventus - following his famous £88 million mega-move this summer.

However, the Portuguese failed to reach a similar level of impact as he struggled to break down a stubborn Valencia defense that kept him at bay throughout his stay on the pitch. To make things worse, the attacker was shown a red card after clashing with Valencia defender Murillo in the 29th minute, and he couldn't help but burst into tears as he walked away from the pitch.

Depending on the extent of his punishment, Ronaldo might have granted Messi a big privilege in the race for dominance in the Champions League this season. With the Portuguese expected to miss about 2 matches, it comes as a huge opportunity for the Barcelona maestro to pull himself clear.

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