CRISTIANO RONALDO literally towered over Lionel Messi as he celebrated an historic goal by creating an image to spark wild reaction from fans.

Right in front of a giant mural of GOAT rival Messi, Ronaldo performed his leaping 'Siu' hallmark after becoming the first player to score in five World Cups.

Legend Ron's penalty opener teed up Portugal's 3-2 triumph over Ghana.

And Sun columnist Piers Morgan led the delighted response online after the free-scoring free agent was captured with perfect symmetry, looming over Messi at the 974 stadium in Doha.

It was Ronaldo's explosive Talk TV interview with Morgan that led to Manchester United ripping up the 37-year-old's contract on Tuesday.

And when the celebrity presenter saw the picture, he posted: "Even Messi knows" - next to a picture of a goat.

The snap could become an iconic symbol of the rivalry between the two undisputed greats of modern football, especially as it's likely to be their last World Cup.

One supporter wrote: "The timing of this Ronaldo celebration!" - with a laughing emoji.

If Ron managed to set up the position of the image deliberately then he could be an even greater genius than super-fans like Morgan believe.

But even if it was an amazing "coincidence" - with Ronaldo's arm at one stage wrapped over Messi's head - fans on social media went into a frenzy.

One asked what the Argentina idol will think when he sees the picture and "realizes Cristiano Ronaldo is the only Goat".

But of course Messi fans too piled in.

This view spoke for many: "Messi remains the greatest player of his generation. Asides from his exceptional talent, he's a superior playmaker & a team-player.

"The world will likely get to see another footballer like Ronaldo, but Messi's a once in a generation type of player. "