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| Ronaldo during the match between Portugal and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Photo: FIFA |
Argentina opened the 2026 World Cup with two consecutive wins in Group J, securing their place in the next round, and Messi was the driving force behind that achievement. In their opening match against Algeria, Messi's hack-trick not only secured the victory but also marked a memorable milestone, reaching 16 goals in the World Cup, equaling Miroslav Klose's record. However, that was just the beginning.
On the Dallas pitch in the early hours of June 23rd, Messi continued to be the center of attention. Transcending age limitations, Messi continued to shine with a brace against Austria. With 18 goals scored in World Cups, Messi currently tops the list of all-time leading goalscorers, despite having missed a penalty earlier in the match.
Surprisingly, at 39, Messi is no longer the speed machine or the magical dribbler who tore apart opposing defenses like in his prime at Barcelona. In this World Cup, Messi is the focal point, the link, and the very essence of Argentina's game. He reads the game faster than anyone else on the field, knowing exactly when to receive the ball, when to give space, and when to be in key positions to decide the outcome. This is something that cannot be learned through training; it's an innate talent.
The whole world , including those who aren't Argentinian fans, seems to be secretly hoping Messi can prolong this final adventure for as long as possible. Few players in the history of world football have created such a great consensus within their national team. Just look at how the Argentinian players share their joy with Messi after each goal; it's clear that the Argentinian team is playing for Messi, and Messi is playing for something greater than himself.
While Messi was being celebrated, Cristiano Ronaldo was facing significant criticism. Portugal's disappointing 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo in their opening Group K match wasn't the worst result in terms of points, but it was a game that left Portuguese fans disappointed with their captain, Ronaldo. At 41, Ronaldo still wears the legendary number 7 jersey and captain's armband, but on the pitch, he's no longer the player who can single-handedly change the course of a game with his physicality and speed as he did in previous decades. Ronaldo's inaccurate shots and easy turnovers in the match against the Democratic Republic of Congo are becoming a topic of discussion not only in international media but also within Portugal itself. The Guardian even boldly questioned whether Ronaldo should be benched for Portugal's upcoming matches.
The Portuguese national team still has two matches left in Group K against Uzbekistan and Colombia. This is an opportunity for Ronaldo to prove himself with goals to help Portugal secure victories and enough points to advance from the group stage.
To be fair, Ronaldo remains the greatest player in Portuguese football history, having led his country to victory at EURO 2016 and still being present at the World Cup. At 41 years old, Ronaldo is the oldest player (other than a goalkeeper) still playing on the pitch at the world's biggest tournament, a feat very few players have achieved.
The 2026 World Cup is still a long way off. Ronaldo has repeatedly silenced doubters with goals, and no one can be sure he won't do it again.
PH
Source: https://baokhanhhoa.vn/the-thao/the-thao-quoc-te/202606/nghich-lygiua-2-sieu-sao-bong-da-6f34532/
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