Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo set for sixth World Cup appearance
Mumbai, June 16
The rivalry between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo has defined a generation of football. Widely regarded as two of the greatest players in the sport's history, both are set to feature in their sixth FIFA World Cup in the ongoing 2026 edition.
Their incredible longevity has seen them remain at the top for over two decades, from their first World Cup appearance in Germany 2006 to the 2026 edition. As what could be their final World Cup, both legends will be hoping for a memorable farewell. Messi will aim to guide Argentina towards a second consecutive World Cup title, while Ronaldo will look to win the one major trophy missing from his illustrious career, a press release from ZEE5 stated.
Argentina begin their World Cup campaign against Algeria on Tuesday (local time), with the defending champions looking to start their title defence with a statement victory. After lifting the trophy in 2022, Lionel Messi and his team will be among the favourites once again.
Algeria, meanwhile, head into the tournament with confidence after a strong run of results. Led by a talented squad featuring experience and young attacking talent, they will look to challenge the reigning champions and make an early impact.
Players to watch in the Argentina camp include Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez and Emiliano Martinez. For Algeria, on the other hand, Riyad Mahrez, Mohamed Amoura, Rayan Ait-Nouri will be under the spotlight, the release said.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal begin their campaign against Congo on Wednesday, carrying the confidence of recently winning the 2024-25 UEFA Nations League, their second title in the competition.
With a squad filled with world-class talent, Portugal will be aiming for a deep run, while also drawing inspiration from the memory of Diogo Jota and his dream of winning the World Cup with the national team.
Congo return to the World Cup stage with a fearless squad determined to make their mark. Known for their physicality, pace and attacking ability, they will look to challenge one of the tournament favourites and showcase the progress of African football.
For Portugal, players to watch include Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, and Vitinha, while DR Congo will rely on Yoane Wissa, Meschack Elia, and Chancel Mbemba.
Fans in India can watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 live on ZEE5.
— ANI
Reader Comments
So excited to see CR7 finally win the World Cup! 🇵🇹 After that Nations League victory, Portugal has such a strong squad. Would be the perfect send-off.
Argentina defending the title—dreamy! Messi is pure magic. Also, I'm glad ZEE5 is streaming it live in India. I still remember staying up till 3 am for the 2022 final and bursting into tears when he lifted the trophy. 🏆❤️ Wishing both greats a memorable series. But honestly, I hope Argentina takes it again—Messi deserves a second consecutive final moment!
No doubt they're legends, but let's be realistic here: Messi and Ronaldo are past their prime. Can they really carry teams at 39+? The real story is how football evolves—look at these African teams like DR Congo, they're hungry and fearless. Also, India's been left out again in this "World Cup." At this rate, we'll never see a blue jersey in such tournaments. 🤷♂️
Just imagine the scenes if Ronaldo scores a winning goal in the final! 🙌 That would be the greatest story in football history. Portugal have that team depth now—Bruno, Vitinha, Felix... they can do it. Let's see if Congo has any plans other than parking the bus!
I don't follow football as much, but the names Messi and Ronaldo are everywhere. It's emotional to think this might be their last World
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