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Messi and Ronaldo could meet at 2026 World Cup knockout stage

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 6:30 AM

Last updated Jun 16, 2026

Messi and Ronaldo could meet at 2026 World Cup knockout stage

Summary

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo may face each other for the first time at the World Cup, with the possibility of an Argentina vs. Portugal clash in the 2026 tournament. Both teams are expected to advance from the group stage, setting up a potential quarterfinal matchup if they each win their respective groups. Argentina and Portugal have never played against each other in a World Cup but have met twice in friendlies, with each player winning one match. The tournament will increase to 48 teams, making a knockout round meeting feasible. Fans are eager to see the two soccer legends compete on the world's biggest stage.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Messi's Argentina and Ronaldo's Portugal have never faced in a World Cup.
•Both teams expected to win their groups, leading to potential knockout match.
•Argentina vs. Portugal could occur in the quarterfinals on July 11.
•Previous encounters were in friendlies, with each player securing a win.
•2026 World Cup will feature an expanded format with 48 teams.

Latest Updates

6:30 AMYahoo Sports — Can Messi and Ronaldo meet at World Cup? Projecting the pathway for iconic Argentina vs. Portugal clash in 2026

What they're saying

"
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are two legends inextricably linked, as they built a high-profile rivalry simply by having existed in the same era of football history. Could they face off at the World Cup for the first time ever?
— Yahoo Sports

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