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FIFA World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are all set to unfold a new chapter in their respective footballing careers as they will be playing their record sixth World Cup. The schedule for the FIFA World Cup 2026 is already out, and the two legendary footballers are all set and gearing up for probably their last appearance at the biggest of the stages.

Both Messi and Ronaldo are past their primes and are enjoying the end part of their stellar careers away from European football after years of domination. Apart from setting new standards on the back of their memorable performances, they have bagged numerous trophies and have achieved immense success at the individual levels as well. These two have come face-to-face on several occasions and delivered breathtaking performances in club as well as international meetings.

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With both the veteran stars playing their club football on different continents, the chance of the two again coming face-to-face on the field is close to none. However, a much-awaited meeting could be on the cards if things fall in place during the upcoming FIFA WC, which will be played in the USA, Canada and Mexico.

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While Argentina will be heading into the World Cup as the defending champions, Messi has yet to confirm whether he will be a part of the tournament. While speculations continue to surface, Messi is expected to be making the trip for the World Cup as a squad member.


How can Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo be witnessed in the FIFA World Cup 2026?

Argentina are placed in group J of the FIFA World Cup 2026 alongside Algeria, Australia and Jordan. The three-time champions start their campaign against Algeria on June 17 before facing Austria (June 22) and then Jordan (June 28).

On the other hand, Ronaldo's Portugal is drawn in group K alongside Uzbekistan, Colombia, and the FIFA Intercontinental Playoff winner 1. They will begin their campaign against the playoff winner on June 17 before running into Uzbekistan (June 23) and Colombia (June 28). Argentina and Portugal could lock horns in the World Cup quarter-finals, but for that, they have to top their groups and then win their respective last-32 and last-16 matches as well.

If the scenario becomes a reality, Messi and Ronaldo will once again be seen up against each other during the Argentina vs Portugal quarter-final match on July 11 at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is all set to witness the unprecedented participation of 48 teams and will be played from June 11 to July 19, with the first match scheduled to be played between South Africa and Mexico.

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