Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are poised to make their sixth World Cup appearances at the 2026 tournament, which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Argentina will face Algeria at Kansas City Stadium in Group J, while Portugal will play against the Democratic Republic of the Congo at Houston Stadium in a Group K match. These two legendary players, who have been fixtures in World Cups since the 2000s, are drawing global attention.
Lionel Messi's Historic Journey
The 38-year-old Argentinian striker, who led his country to victory in the 2022 World Cup, is expected to be named in the squad for his sixth tournament. Messi holds the record for the most World Cup appearances, with 26 matches. Starting the tournament at age 38, he could turn 39 on June 24 if Argentina advance deep into the competition. He also holds Argentina's record for most World Cup goals, with 13 in 26 matches.
Cristiano Ronaldo's Quest
The 41-year-old Portuguese star has appeared in five World Cups (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022), scoring 7 goals in 2022 for a total of 13. Ronaldo aims to surpass 1,000 career goals and continue his scoring streak. He is the first footballer to score in five different World Cups, having found the net in every tournament from 2006 to 2022. Despite his success, Ronaldo has yet to win the World Cup with Portugal and will fight for his first title in 2026.
Both players are set to make history with their sixth appearances, cementing their legacies as two of the greatest footballers of all time.
