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Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo could end the greatest rivalry in football history with a memorable 2026 World Cup final, as the tournament's route gives them the chance to meet only in the trophy match.
The two football legends have dominated the sport for more than two decades, winning a combined 13 Ballons d'Or and constantly fueling the debate over who is the greatest footballer of all time.
Now, after the group stage is over, the ideal scenario has been created for Messi and Ronaldo to face each other for the first time in history in a World Cup match – and only in the final, on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Their paths to the final
Argentina finished Group J with three wins from as many games, after defeating Jordan 3-1. Messi, who came off the bench, scored for the seventh consecutive game at this World Cup and continues to extend his record as the top scorer in World Cup history.
The defending champions will face Cape Verde in the round of 16. If they qualify, they will face Egypt or Australia, while in the quarterfinals they could face Switzerland, Algeria, Colombia or Ghana. A possible semifinal against Brazil or England would be the biggest test before the final.
Portugal, on the other hand, finished second in Group K after a 0-0 draw with Colombia and will face Croatia first. If they advance, they could face Spain, and then one of the USA, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Belgium or Senegal.
The fact that Portugal did not win the group meant that Messi and Ronaldo were placed on opposite sides of the table, eliminating the possibility of a showdown before the final.
A historical chapter can be closed
Messi and Ronaldo have faced each other 36 times during their careers, mostly in the legendary matches between Barcelona and Real Madrid. The Argentine has 16 wins, while the Portuguese has 11.
However, they have never faced each other in a World Cup match. If both teams make it to the final, the July 19 final will be the only chance for the two football icons to clash on the biggest stage possible.
Although there are some difficult obstacles to overcome until then, a final between Messi and Ronaldo would be the perfect conclusion to a rivalry that has marked an entire era in football history.
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