Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have secured their legacies as two of the greatest players in history.

Even if both men suffered a catastrophic end to their respective careers, the duo have achieved far too much in the 'beautiful game' to be considered anything less than all-time greats.

Besides, it's testament to their ability and remarkable statistics that they are so often called the GOAT (greatest of all-time) by their fanbases.

It seems that their achievements are simply too incredible for the classic World Cup point to brought in, something that would often be the acid test for so many legends.

Yet with over one thousands goals between them, nearly 10 Champions League titles and five Ballon d'Ors each, we can skate over their lack of world football's biggest prize.

The GOAT debate

After all, their records are more than comparable to some of the players traditionally discussed in the GOAT debate such as Diego Maradona and Pele.

Both players were indisputably the best of their era, but how would their compare in the contemporary game and against Ronaldo and Messi themselves?

The fact of the matter is, so much has changed about football over the years that we can never formulate a clear answer but that doesn't stop football fans from trying.

Live graphic on goals

Content creator 'FDOR' has been producing fascinating live graphics in 2019, tackling a number of topics in the 'beautiful game' and tracking statistics over predetermined timeframes.

In his latest video addressing the GOAT debate, he has compared seven of the greatest goal-scorers in history: Ronaldo, Messi, Pele, Maradona, Neymar, Romario and Ronaldo Nazario.

As with many of the live graphics, it has tracked their goals at the same ages throughout their careers - so check out the full clip down below:

Before any pitchforks are sharpened in Pele's direction, it's worth noting that only official goals have counted towards the statistics.

Ok, the Brazilian was still playing against some weak opposition, but amassing 763 goals across your career should not be downplayed.

It's interesting to note that Romario finishes in second place, yet Ronaldo and Messi have age on their side and could feasibly overtake the Brazilians in the coming years.

Something we can note for example, though, is that Pele did boast better goal-scoring tallies than both Messi and Ronaldo when he was as old as they are now.

Meanwhile, Neymar's statistics for somebody his age are pretty remarkable and he has already usurped Maradona who, given his deeper-lying position, finishes at the bottom.

So, does the live graphic settle the GOAT debate? Unsurprisingly, no but it does provide some fascinating perspective on a topic that will football fans debating for decades.

Who do you think is the greatest player in history? Have your say in the comments section below.