The destiny of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi could be shaped at the 2026 World Cup, as both stars already know the paths they must follow in their pursuit of the title and the rivals they may encounter along the way.
One of the most intriguing possibilities for both Portugal and Argentina is that the two teams could meet in a decisive stage of the tournament. For a Cristiano Ronaldo versus Lionel Messi fixture to take place, however, several key conditions must be met.
The simplest scenario on paper requires both teams to finish first in their respective groups, J and K. If this happens, they would be placed on the same side of the knockout bracket, making a potential quarter-final meeting possible.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal will face Colombia, Uzbekistan and an intercontinental playoff opponent, which could be Jamaica, Congo or New Caledonia.
Meanwhile, Lionel Messi and the reigning world champions will play Austria, Algeria and Jordan. On paper, both sides have a strong chance of topping their groups.
If Argentina and Portugal advance as group winners, they would then need to progress smoothly through the round of 32 and round of 16 to set up a meeting on 11 July, pending confirmation of the tournament schedule that FIFA will release on Saturday at noon in the United States.
This potential clash would take place in Kansas City and decide a place in the semi-finals. It would allow fans to witness Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi competing directly for a spot in the last four, keeping alive their hopes of lifting the trophy at the 2026 World Cup.
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nemcdekmou
3
CR7, the VERIFIED GOAT
sodcltyz
4
Messi has already beaten Ronaldo severally in Barca versus Madrid in La Liga.I’m convinced he will beat him again to advance to the semi finals and possibly the finals