2026 World Cup: It Will Be Top – Ronaldo Speaks on Facing Messi, Argentina

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted it would be exciting to face Lionel Messi and Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the prospect as “top.”

The veteran forward made the remark after inspiring Portugal to a convincing victory over Uzbekistan on Tuesday.

Ronaldo scored twice as Portugal secured a comfortable 4-0 win, a result that moved them to the top of Group K with four points.

The 41-year-old delivered another standout performance as Portugal strengthened their hopes of reaching the knockout rounds and continuing their pursuit of a first World Cup title.

Following the match, Ronaldo was asked about the possibility of facing Argentina and his long-time rival Messi later in the tournament.

Responding to the question, the Portuguese star acknowledged that such a clash would be special but stressed that his focus remains firmly on Portugal’s current campaign.

“Facing Leo Messi at the World Cup? The question doesn’t make a lot of sense… but ok. It would be top,” Ronaldo said.

“But my focus was on today. We won, I have been able to score, we keep going together. I am happy.”

The possibility of a meeting between Portugal and Argentina has generated excitement among football fans around the world, given the historic rivalry between Ronaldo and Messi.

For more than a decade, the two players dominated global football, winning multiple Ballon d’Or awards and breaking numerous records at club and international level.

Messi is currently leading Argentina’s charge at the World Cup after helping the defending champions qualify for the knockout stages.

The Argentine captain has been in outstanding form, scoring five goals in his first two matches and setting several World Cup records in the process.

Meanwhile, Ronaldo recently became the first player in football history to score in six different FIFA World Cups after finding the net against Uzbekistan.

Should Portugal finish top of Group K and Argentina progress as expected from their side of the draw, both nations could meet in the quarter-finals.

Such a showdown would potentially mark one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament, with two of football’s greatest icons facing each other on the biggest stage.

For now, however, Ronaldo remains focused on helping Portugal secure qualification and continue their march toward World Cup glory.