Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are set to make history at FIFA World Cup 2026, becoming the first male footballers to appear in six editions of the tournament. Their careers have shaped two decades of football, from Germany 2006 to what could be their final World Cup.
Messi will again lead Argentina, the defending champions, as they begin their campaign against Algeria on June 17. Ronaldo will guide Portugal against DR Congo, with both players still chasing major silverware as they near the end of long international careers.
Argentina To Begin Title Defence Against Algeria
Argentina start their World Cup defence against Algeria after winning the trophy in 2022. Messi and his team will aim to open with a strong result, while Algeria arrive with confidence after a solid run of results and a squad
with experience and young attacking talent.
Players to watch for Argentina are Lionel Messi, Julián Álvarez and Emiliano MartÍnez. Algeria's key names are Riyad Mahrez, Mohamed Amoura and Rayan Ait-Nouri. The match gives the champions a first test against a side hoping to make an early impact.
Portugal To Face Spirited DR Congo Side In WC Opener
Portugal begin against DR Congo after winning the 2024-25 UEFA Nations League, their second title in the competition. Cristiano Ronaldo is again central to their hopes, while the team also carry the memory of Diogo Jota and his dream of winning the World Cup with Portugal.
Portugal have a squad full of top-level talent and will be targeting a deep run in the tournament. DR Congo return to the World Cup stage with a fearless side known for physical strength, pace and attacking play, and will try to test one of the favourites.
The players to watch are Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes and Vitinha for Portugal, and Yoane Wissa, Meschack Elia and Chancel Mbemba for DR Congo. With Messi and Ronaldo both in line for a sixth World Cup, the tournament adds another major chapter to their rivalry.
