Messi and Ronaldo set new World Cup records.

If Ronaldo and Messi participate in the 2026 World Cup Finals, they will set a record of six appearances at the biggest football event on the planet.

Messi (left) and Ronaldo are about to set new World Cup records - Photo: REUTERS

With both Portugal and Argentina having officially secured their places in the 2026 World Cup finals, superstars Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are on the verge of setting an unprecedented record.

If all goes smoothly, both will become the first players in history to participate in six World Cups.

This number surpasses the record of 5 appearances that they currently share with other legends Lothar Matthaus (Germany) and the Mexican trio: Antonio Carbajal, Rafael Marquez, and Andres Guardado.

At an age when many players have already retired, the fact that both Ronaldo and Messi are still maintaining peak performance to aim for their sixth World Cup is proof of their enduring quality and timeless class.

Portugal secured their place in North America next summer after a crushing 9-1 victory over Armenia, despite the absence of Ronaldo due to suspension.

Coach Roberto Martinez affirmed that the team had shown its best strength, creating the conditions for the 41-year-old captain to have the opportunity to conquer the only major title missing from his illustrious career. Ronaldo himself has also confirmed that the 2026 World Cup will be his last tournament in the national team's colors.

Meanwhile, Messi fulfilled his dream of winning the World Cup with Argentina in Qatar in 2022 and is also ready for the journey to defend his title.

The Argentina national team has also qualified through the South American regional qualifiers. Although Messi has not yet made a final decision about participating in the 2026 World Cup, the chances of him continuing to lead his teammates are very high.

Beyond the record for the number of appearances, the 2026 World Cup is also an opportunity for these two legends to increase their individual achievements. Currently, Messi holds the record for the most appearances in World Cup history with 26 matches, while Ronaldo has 22. The upcoming tournament will be a chance for the Portuguese superstar to close the gap.

The nearly two-decade-long rivalry between Messi and Ronaldo promises to have an emotional final chapter at the 2026 World Cup.

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THANH DINH

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/messi-cung-ronaldo-lap-ky-luc-moi-o-world-cup-20251117150738391.htm