Messi and Ronaldo Prepare for Final World Cup as Football Icons Chase History

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are set to make history at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where both legends are expected to feature in the final tournament appearances of their careers.

The two football icons will become the first players to participate in six different World Cups, having first appeared at the competition in 2006.

After leading Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title in Qatar, Messi hinted that his career was nearing its conclusion.

“Obviously I wanted to finish my career with this. I can’t ask for any more,” the Argentine star said after the final victory over France.

“My career is coming to an end because these are my final years. What more could there be after this?”

Despite those remarks, Messi has continued to perform at a high level with Inter Miami CF after leaving Paris Saint-Germain.

The 39-year-old also captained Argentina to Copa America glory in 2024 and remains a key figure for the national team.

“I love playing football, and I’m going to do it until I can’t anymore,” Messi said recently.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni expressed confidence that Messi will feature at the tournament.

“I will do everything to make sure he is there,” Scaloni stated.

Messi heads into the tournament with 26 World Cup appearances and 13 goals, leaving him close to breaking Miroslav Klose’s record of 16 World Cup goals.

For Ronaldo, the 2026 edition will also represent one final opportunity to win the only major trophy missing from his career.

The Portugal captain, who currently plays for Al Nassr FC, remains the most-capped male player in football history with 226 international appearances.

Ronaldo recently admitted the upcoming tournament would likely be his farewell World Cup.

“I’m going to be 41 years old and I think it will be the moment,” he said.

Portugal manager Roberto Martinez described Ronaldo as a model professional.

“He is the captain and he shows exemplary commitment to his country. He is incredible,” Martinez said.

A potential quarter-final clash between Argentina and Portugal could set up one final World Cup showdown between Messi and Ronaldo in Kansas City on July 11.

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