Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi go head to head in boot sales

Real Madrid maestro Cristiano Ronaldo and Barcelona star Lionel Messi have launched separate ranges of boots from rival sponsors.

Ronaldo has introduced a new special edition pair of Nike Mercurial Vapor VIII CRs, which are covered in black on the top but have a pink layer on the sole.

The boots also display the Portugal international's signature symbol of a heart, which represents his love for winning, and a cross, which is said to show his hatred for losing.

Meanwhile, Argentina forward Messi, who became a father for the first time following the birth of his son Thiago last week, has manufactured a pair of bright yellow Adidas F50 boots.