Fabio Capello: Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo are a "phenomena"

Russia coach Fabio Capello has described Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo as a "phenomena".

The two are widely regarded as the finest players in world football and Real Madrid forward Ronaldo beat Barcelona star Messi to this year's FIFA Ballon d'Or on Monday.

Speaking to Marca, Capello, who managed England from 2008 to 2012, said: "These two are two phenomena, they are different, though.

"Cristiano is a great player; so strong physically, so powerful. Messi has more creativity.

"Having either of these two players on your team is a guarantee that at any time you can change the game."

Messi has won the Ballon d'Or a record four times.