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The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to kick off on June 12, and excitement is already building across the football world. Two of the sport’s greatest icons, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, are once again grabbing headlines as they prepare for what could be their final appearance on football’s biggest stage.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will feature 48 teams, giving fans the chance to witness several global stars in action. However, the most anticipated storyline surrounds the potential meeting between Messi and Ronaldo. Reports suggest that both players are likely to play in this World Cup for the last time, making the prospect of their face-off even more special. Here’s when these two football legends could go head-to-head.

When could Messi and Ronaldo meet?

In the FIFA World Cup 2026, Lionel Messi will represent Argentina, while Cristiano Ronaldo will lead Portugal. Both teams have been drawn into separate groups — Argentina in Group J and Portugal in Group K. This means the two sides will not meet during the group stage. However, if both Argentina and Portugal top their respective groups and advance through the Round of 32 and Round of 16, a potential clash between Messi and Ronaldo could take place on July 11 in the quarter-finals.

Chasing a major record

As soon as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo step onto the pitch for the FIFA World Cup 2026, they will create history. Both footballers will be appearing in their sixth World Cup tournament — a remarkable milestone in football history. According to reports, this edition of the FIFA World Cup may mark their final participation in the tournament. Therefore, if Argentina and Portugal do meet on July 11, it could be the last time Messi and Ronaldo face each other in a World Cup match, adding even more significance to their storied rivalry.