For nearly two decades, football has revolved around Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Now comes the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico. The tournament will see Messi headlining Argentina's title defence. Meanwhile, Ronaldo will be looking to get the elusive trophy in his final attempt.
There is a chance that Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo could face each other earlier than expected.
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There is a chance that fans could be treated to a Messi vs Ronaldo showdown at the World Cup. But it also depends on other results. Also, the tournament has been expanded to 48 teams.
If Argentina finish top of Group J and Portugal top of Group K, both teams have a chance of facing each other in the quarter-finals, provided they win their Round of 32 and Round of 16 fixtures.
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If both teams finish as runners-up in their groups, they could meet in the Round of 16, provided they win their knockout games. But if one team wins their group and the other comes second, then they can only face each other in the final.
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If both teams finish as runners-up in their groups, they could meet in the Round of 16, provided they win their knockout games. But if one team wins their group and the other comes second, then they can only face each other in the final.
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Beyond results and trophies, the tournament will also be remembered as a celebration of their longevity. Both Messi and Ronaldo have rewritten football and have also changed how players remain at the highest level.
Their rivalry has also led to extraordinary numbers, countless trophies and endless debate over who is the greatest of all time. Messi leads in Ballon d'Or awards with eight, compared to Ronaldo's five. He is also the only player among the two to have won the FIFA World Cup. Ronaldo is international football's all-time goalscorer with 143 goals.
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Speaking to ESPN, Portugal manager Roberto Martinez said, "Our captain sets an example in everything he does."
"He gives his all, 24 hours a day, to help the national team. Our captain and the rest of the players are not thinking about the future. We don't know what can happen in the future because they can get injured and there are decisions that are out of their hands.
"The focus is on training, being the best, putting the concepts into practice and showing pride in wearing the shirt. That's the example he sets. His sole aim is to use it for tomorrow to improve," he added.
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results.
A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.
Stay updated with the latest sports news, including latest headlines and updates from the Durand Cup Final Live. Catch all the action from tennis Grand Slam tournaments, follow your favourite football teams and players with the latest match results, and get the latest on international hockey tournaments and series.
Stay updated with the latest sports news, including latest headlines and updates from the Durand Cup Final Live. Catch all the action from tennis Grand Slam tournaments, follow your favourite football teams and players with the latest match results, and get the latest on international hockey tournaments and series.
Home/Sports/Football/Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo at 2026 FIFA World Cup? Possible scenarios that could deliver one final showdown
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