SCMP: Such a big contrast between a *brain verses **brainless: While Messi is still reeling from the anger created by his non-appearance in an exhibition game in Hong Kong, Ronaldo has posted a video on the Chinese social media platform Weibo wishing fans a happy Lunar New Year.

*Cristiano Ronaldo and **Lionel Messi used to compete for Ballon d’Or trophies, La Liga titles, Champions League medals and the rest of football’s top accolades.

But now, the two greatest players of their generation have found a new battleground, and there is no doubt who is surging ahead in the race for the affections of Chinese fans.