When and how Ronaldo and Messi could meet in 2026 World Cup
By Lutta Njomo, June 28, 2026As the 2026 FIFA World Cup enters its decisive stage, most football fans are wondering if the global showpiece will serve the dream matchup between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
The two have so far played an integral role in guiding their teams, Portugal and Argentina, to the World Cup round of 32.
But the latest Portugal result against Colombia complicated the chances of the two cult heroes ultimately facing off in the tournament.
The two era-defining rivals made their World Cup debuts as youngsters way back in 2006 and have since featured in every edition of FIFA’s flagship tournament.
The route
Ronaldo’s Portugal side entered their final Group K match against Colombia needing a victory to secure first place in the standings, but ended up settling for a draw.
On the other side, Argentina locked up the top spot in Group J after victories over Algeria and Austria, with Messi enjoying a spectacular tournament, topping the FIFA World Cup all-time top scorer charts.
The Seleção needed a win against Colombia to finish first in Group K. Only that way, Ronaldo and Messi could have renewed their rivalry in the quarter-finals.
That blockbuster showdown could have taken place on Saturday, July 11, 2026, in Kansas City.
Portugal move to opposite bracket
After Ronaldo failed to guide his side past Colombia, Portugal finished second, which automatically moved them to the opposite side of the bracket.
Portugal booked a date with Croatia in the Round of 32 before a potential Round of 16 clash against Spain. They could face co-hosts the USA or Belgium in the last eight. France, Germany or the Netherlands could await in the semis.
The South Americans face Cape Verde in the last 32. The winners of that game will face Australia or Egypt in the last 16, Colombia or Switzerland in the last eight and Brazil or England in the semis.
With paths opposite, Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal would no longer be able to meet Messi and Argentina until the World Cup final on Sunday, July 19, 2026. The match will be held at the New York-New Jersey Stadium
If that happens, Messi would be looking to retain the World Cup trophy, while Ronaldo could have a chance to add that silverware to his collection of accolades.
That ending could bring to a close a long football chapter dominated by debates on who is the goat between the two.