Messi, Ronaldo may meet only in 2026 World Cup final after avoiding early clash

Argentina won Group J and will face debutants Cape Verde in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while Portugal finished as runners-up in Group K after a 0‑0 draw with Colombia and will meet Croatia for a place in the last 16. This means Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo can only meet each other in the tournament final next month. Argentina, the current holders, are seen as having a relatively straightforward path to the final, whereas Portugal must navigate a tougher knockout route. The matchups were confirmed after the final group stage matches on June 27, 2026. Football fans who have long hoped for a Messi‑Ronaldo showdown will now have to wait until the potential final to see the two legends clash on the world stage. Will you adjust your viewing plans to catch a possible final showdown, or will you focus on supporting your favorite team through the earlier rounds?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/06/28/2026-world-cup-messi-ronaldo-avoid-each-other-in-round-of-32/