Cristiano Ronaldo beat longtime rival Lionel Messi to the man of the match award in Riyadh Season Team’s 5-4 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in an enthralling friendly. The iconic duo both scored as the Parisians claimed victory in a memorable exhibition match on Thursday (January 19).

The new Al Nassr arrival played in his first match since arriving in the Saudi Pro League and captained his side. He turned in a trademark performance despite being on the losing side.

Messi opened the scoring for PSG in the 3rd minute, but Cristiano Ronaldo responded with a penalty in the 45+6th minute. It was contentiously awarded after the Portuguese collided with Parisian goalkeeper Keylor Navas.

Christophe Galtier’s side pulled in front once again through Marquinhos in the 43rd minute. However, Ronaldo was right in the thick of things and slotted home another equalizer in the 45+6th minute after his header had hit the post.

He lasted 61 minutes, had seven shots, and created one chance. It was a typically mesmerizing performance from the five-time Ballon d’Or winner. He was awarded the man of the match award ahead of his rival Messi.