Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi could face off at the 2026 World Cup.
What happened?
Portugal finished second in Group K, after drawing with DR Congo and Colombia, and beating Uzbekistan.
Why it matters for Cristiano Ronaldo
This finish sets up a brutal path to the final, likely including Croatia, Spain, the United States, and France.
Cristiano Ronaldo has shared the pitch with Lionel Messi 36 times, with Messi winning 16, Ronaldo 11, and nine draws.
What comes next?
Argentina finished top of Group J, winning all three matches against Austria, Algeria, and Jordan.
If Portugal had won Group K, they would have played Ghana in the round of 32 and either Switzerland or Algeria in the round of 16, potentially setting up a quarter-final clash with Argentina.
But as they finished second, Portugal are on the opposite half of the knockout bracket, making a meeting with Messi's Argentina possible only in the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium on July 19 or in the third-place play-off.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are considered the two greatest players ever, and their rivalry has been a highlight of football history.
The 2026 World Cup may be the last chance for these two legends to face off on the international stage.
On the road to the final, Portugal will need to overcome tough opponents, but a potential meeting with Argentina would be a dream come true for football fans.
The stage is set for a thrilling tournament, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi at the center of attention.
The world will be watching as these two football legends clash, possibly for the last time, at the 2026 World Cup.