The Qatar World Cup killed the Messi-Ronaldo debate. But the 2026 World Cup might just be sticking nails in the coffin.
For many, the Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo debate was over when Argentina won the World Cup in Qatar.
It looked likely that would be the final chapter for the two era-defining rivals, but here we are again, with Messi and Ronaldo becoming the first players in the history of men’s football to play at six World Cups.
While Messi has little to prove at this stage, this is surely Ronaldo’s last chance to get his hands on one major trophy that’s always eluded him – and ultimately the reason his legacy looks likely to be overshadowed by his old foe.
