Did Luka Modri? Deserve the 2018 Ballon d'Or Over Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi?

Luka Modri?'s victory as the recipient of the 2018 Ballon d'Or, breaking a decade-long dominance by Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, was a significant event in football history. This article delves into Modri?'s exceptional performance, the context of his achievements, and the controversy surrounding his title as the best player of the year.

Excellence on the World Stage

Modri?'s crowning achievement in 2018 was leading Croatia to the World Cup final, where he was awarded the Golden Ball, the tournament's best player award. This was a testament to his exceptional skill, vision, and leadership. His performances throughout the World Cup showcased fundamental contributions, including controlling games and creating numerous scoring opportunities. These attributes were critical to Croatia's unprecedented success in the tournament.

Domestic Success with Real Madrid

At the club level, Modri? played a pivotal role in Real Madrid's success during the 2017-2018 season, contributing to their Champions League victory. His consistent performance in midfield, helping to control games and create scoring opportunities, highlighted his importance to the team. Beyond the Champions League triumph, Modri? also received the UEFA Men's Player of the Year Award, UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup, all of which further underscored his individual impact.

Controversy Surrounding the Awards

The 2018 Ballon d'Or was met with considerable criticism, with many arguing that other players, such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, deserved the award more. Both Ronaldo and Messi had outstanding individual seasons, particularly in terms of their goal-scoring prowess and assists. Let's explore the achievements of Luka Modri?, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Lionel Messi in 2018.

Luka Modri?'s Achievements

Modri?'s achievements in 2018 included:

2nd place at the World Cup Winning the Golden Ball at the World Cup The Champions League title UEFA Men's Player of the Year Award UEFA Super Cup FIFA Club World Cup

These accolades collectively make a strong case for Modri?'s Ballon d'Or win. His consistent performances and the titles he won, particularly leading his nation to unprecedented success, were significant factors in his victory.

Comparing Modri? with Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi

Let's compare the achievements of Modri? with those of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi:

Cristiano Ronaldo's Achievements

Champions League title Champions League Top Goalscorer 2017/2018 (15 goals) 49 goals and 13 assists in 53 appearances SuperCopa Italia winner

Ronaldo's goalscoring and assist numbers are impressive, especially in the Champions League. However, his performances at the 2018 World Cup were less stellar compared to Modri?'s.

Lionel Messi's Achievements

La Liga title Copa Del Rey Supercopa De Espa?a La Liga's top goalscorer (34 goals) 51 goals and 23 assists in 54 appearances

Messi's individual performance was exceptional, particularly his goal-scoring record. However, his national team performance at the 2018 World Cup and his league form did not match Modri?'s comprehensive achievements.

Conclusion and Context

While Ronaldo and Messi had exceptional individual seasons, Modri?'s unique contributions to both Croatia's World Cup run and Real Madrid's Champions League success justified his Ballon d'Or win. Modri?'s ability to influence matches from midfield and his leadership were undeniable. His victories were recognized not just for personal achievement but for their impact on both his club and national team.

Controversy aside, Modri?'s Ballon d'Or win was celebrated as a recognition of a different type of football excellence, highlighting the importance of team success and individual impact in major tournaments. Modri?'s success in 2018 was a culmination of his career, and his 2018 season was marked by consistent performances and significant achievements.