Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have shared one of football's greatest rivalries. Although both have repeatedly downplayed comparisons throughout their careers, millions of fans still dream of seeing them face each other on the biggest stage of all: the FIFA World Cup.

That dream is still alive at the 2026 tournament, but the road to making it happen has become much more difficult.

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What Must Happen for Messi to Face Cristiano Ronaldo?

Both Argentina and Portugal advanced from the group stage and are now through to the Round of 32.

Before the tournament began, many expected both teams to finish first in their respective groups, which would have set up a potential quarterfinal showdown.

Instead, Portugal finished second in Group K after ending behind Colombia, dramatically changing the knockout bracket.

As a result, the only remaining scenario in which Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo can meet is in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final, scheduled for July 19.

To get there, Portugal must first eliminate Croatia before navigating a difficult path that could include Spain.

Argentina faces an equally challenging route on the opposite side of the bracket, with potential matchups against England, Brazil and Colombia.

Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo: Head-to-Head Record

Over the course of their legendary careers, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have faced each other 36 times in official matches.

Messi holds a slight edge with 16 victories, while Cristiano Ronaldo has won 11. The remaining nine matches ended in draws.

The Argentine also leads the scoring battle with 22 goals, one more than Cristiano Ronaldo's 21.

If both superstars continue winning through the knockout rounds, the 2026 FIFA World Cup could deliver one final chapter in one of the greatest rivalries the sport has ever seen.

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