Bale & CR7: So similar yet so different
They are the most expensive players in the history of football and they arrive to the tournament’s semi-final after a very different path.
Portugal are in the semi-final but they have yet to win a game in regular time. They racked up three draws in the group stage games, before eliminating Croatia in the extra time and Poland on penalties. Cristiano Ronaldo has only netted two goals so far, though his brace against Hungary was decisive for his side’s qualification for the last 16 stage. The Portuguese ace is not helped by the average quality of his compatriots; he has failed to show his qualities of leader so far.
Gareth Bale, on the other hand, has demonstrated to be a true leader. He has not only scored decisive records, his performances have also increased the team’s level and style of play.
The Real Madrid stars have opposite styles. It is easy to see Cristiano Ronaldo reprimanding his teammates on the pitch; sometimes he appears intolerant towards his teammates who have clearly less quality than him. In addition, CR7 doesn’t run behind his opponents, whilst Gareth Bale runs from the first to the very last minute of each game.
The former Spurs man is everywhere, always ready to help his teammates and not only focused in scoring goals and registering assists.
Thanks to his performances with Wales national team, Bale is now a serious contender for the victory of the Ballon d’Or. Imagine if he would win the award instead of his next opponent and teammate.
