Former Bafana Bafana striker Phil Masinga believes either Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi will end as the top goal scorer at the 2014 World Cup.

Ronaldo, who has recovered from injury in time for the tournament, will turn out for Portugal in Group G against Germany, Ghana and the United States, while Messi’s Argentina face Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iran and Nigeria in Group F.

Masinga admits that the ability of the teams to progress deep in the tournament could well be the deciding factor in just who nets more often in Brazil 2014.

“I think the top scorer will be a race between Messi and Ronaldo,” Masinga told KickOff.com.

“Luis Suarez (Uruguay) is also one to watch out for. However, much will depend on if the teams that these strikers play for manage to go beyond the early stages of the competition.”

With South Africa not represented at the competition, Masinga says he will be rooting for Ivory Coast and Ghana.

“Once again, Ivory Coast have a chance to prove that they are capable of shining on the world stage and I think they will have a point to prove.

“They have very good players but for some of them this will be the last time they will be competing in the World Cup because of age. This will motivate them.

“Ghana almost reached the semi-finals in the last tournament. They were unlucky but they have another chance to do the continent proud,” Masinga added, pointing out that Nigeria could also spring a surprise in the tournament.