Both superstars were fiercely competing for personal accolades over the last couple of years, and their breathtaking displays on all fronts earned them two spots upfront in the star-studded team.

Manchester United scoring sensation Ronaldo has been named FIFA Footballer of the Year for 2008, while Barcelona's Messi finished runner-up for the second year in a row.

AC Milan's Kaka, who won the prestigious award last year, was chosen in the midfield, along with Liverpool and England midfielder Steven Gerrard, French winger Franck Ribery and Spain's Xavi.

Furthermore, Spain and Real Madrid goalie Iker Casillas was picked after beating off competition from Italy's Gianluigi Buffon.

The Spanish Guardian's riveting heroics in a penalty shootout helped Spain defeat the Azzurri in EURO 2008, and Buffon couldn't keep up with him.

Chelsea captain John Terry was named in the imaginary team. His deadly blunder in the UEFA Champions League final was the only fly in the ointment.

When the English international had the title of the elite competition at his mercy in the penalty shoot-out, he awkwardly slipped and missed the target, which cost his team the trophy.

Defenders Sergio Ramos, Carles Puyol and Phillip Lahm were also named in the incredible line-up.

2008 Team of the Year:

Goalkeeper:

Iker Casillas

Defenders:

Sergio Ramos, John Terry, Carles Puyol, Phillip Lahm

Midfielders:

Kaka, Steven Gerrard, Xavi, Franck Ribery

Forwards:

Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi