The first to achieve this feat was Ronaldo, representing Portugal. It came during the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, where his team ultimately reached the Round of 16 before being eliminated by Spain.

Lionel Messi, who recently broke another record with his free-kick goal against Jordan, achieved the feat four years later at Brazil 2014. There, he led Argentina to the final, which unfortunately ended in a loss to Germany in extra time.

Vinicius Jr., Brazil’s leader at this World Cup

Vinicius Jr. is having a sensational 2026 FIFA World Cup, carrying the offensive weight for Brazil and silencing his critics on the international stage. The Real Madrid star has already netted four goals in just three matches, finding the back of the net in every single group stage game to match legends like Ronaldo and Rivaldo.

He opened his tournament tally with the equalizer in a 1-1 draw against Morocco, added another in a clinical 3-0 victory over Haiti, and capped off a brilliant group phase with a stunning brace in the 3-0 triumph against Scotland.

What’s next for Vini Jr. and Brazil?

Brazil will play their Round of 32 match against Japan in Houston, in a game scheduled for 1:00 p.m. ET. There, Vinicius Jr. will look to score once again and close even more the gap with Lionel Messi, the current top scorer of the tournament.

The Argentine No. 10 has scored six goals so far, while the Brazilian has netted four. Cristiano Ronaldo, meanwhile, is outside the top five with just two goals to his name.

“They seemed tired, demotivated,” Quaresma remarked on Live Mode Portugal post-match. “The talent is absolutely there, but there is a distinct lack of joy and creativity. I get the impression they are simply afraid to take risks.”

Quaresma’s harsh critique mirrors the growing skepticism surrounding Portugal’s 2026 World Cup campaign. Securing just five out of a possible nine points—courtesy of a surprising draw with the DR Congo, a 5-0 routing of Uzbekistan, and the stalemate with Colombia—the heavy criticism directed at the Portuguese side feels entirely justified.

Despite the noise, the post-match atmosphere remained respectful between the icons on the pitch. Ronaldo received praises by his former Real Madrid teammate James Rodriguez, contrasting sharply with the mounting backlash from Portuguese pundits and global analysts alike.

Breaking down Portugal’s lackluster display against Colombia

To understand why Quaresma’s post-game comments carried so much bite, one only needs to look at the advanced metrics from Portugal‘s performance against Colombia:

• Total Shots: 36 combined efforts between both teams (Colombia 20 / Portugal 16)
• Shots on Target: Colombia 6 / Portugal 4
• Possession: Colombia 53% / Portugal 47%
• Fouls: Colombia 14 / Portugal 9
• Yellow Cards: 1 (Gustavo Puerta – COL)
• Red Cards: 0
• Player of the Match: Diogo Costa (Portugal Goalkeeper — recorded 6 saves)

Portugal’s complete group-stage analytical profile

While the eye test against premium competition raised red flags, the macro-level statistics suggest Portugal isn’t in total crisis. Blasting past group opponents with six goals scored and just one conceded, Ronaldo’s squad has shown flashes of elite form when firing on all cylinders. Here is a comprehensive look at their statistical output across the entire opening round:

• Games Played: 3
• Record: 1 Win, 2 Draws, 0 Losses
• Points: 5
• Goals For (GF): 6
• Goals Against (GA): 1
• Goal Difference (GD): +5
• Group Finish: 2nd place (Advances to play Croatia in Toronto)
• Average Possession: 58.2%
• Passing Accuracy (Final Third): 86.8%
• Key Creative Outlet: Bruno Fernandes. Despite the lockdown against Colombia, Fernandes generated 9 shot-creating actions across the initial phase. Cristiano Ronaldo entered the final group match with a team-high 2.90 Individual xG.

“Colombia is a very good team—strong, very strong,” Ronaldo said of Colombia following their historic first-ever meeting on the international stage that let them secured a spot in the round of 32.

Portugal manager Roberto Martinez quickly jumped to his captain’s defense while hinting at tactical adjustments ahead of a high-stakes Round of 32 clash against Croatia. Fans are desperate to see the vintage, lethal version of CR7 return to the pitch as the tournament transitions into a win-or-go-home bracket.

While the scoreless draw officially erases any chance of a dramatic quarterfinal showdown between Lionel Messi and Ronaldo, the Portuguese faithful remain steadfast in their expectations, hoping this wake-up call sparks their side—and their talisman—back to life.

James praises Cristiano after the match

Having shared the pitch during one of Real Madrid’s most dominant eras, James Rodriguez was quick to highlight Ronaldo’s enduring impact on the game, reflecting warmly on the foundational role the veteran played when James first arrived in Spain back in 2014.

“Cristiano is a role model,” James told reporters. “When I arrived at Real Madrid, he was one of the first people to welcome me. He invited me to his house, and we became close friends. He’s a wonderful person and an example for everyone. Just look at his physique at 41 years of age.”

What’s next for James and Cristiano?

Ronaldo and Portugal will take Center stage on July 2 in a blockbuster Round of 32 showdown against Croatia. It’s a stage Ronaldo knows intimately, and he already boasts a psychological edge, having netted his historic 900th career goal against the Croatians in a 2-1 UEFA Nations League victory last fall.

Meanwhile, James and Colombia will close out the Round of 32 on July 3 against a resilient Ghana squad. The Black Stars punched their ticket to the knockout phase as one of the top third-place finishers, navigating a grueling group by drawing with England, beating Panama, and falling to Croatia.

Messi scored Argentina’s third goal in the closing match of the group stage, setting a new record by becoming the only player in history to score in seven consecutive matches in the tournament.

Not only that, but he also moved into the top three all-time free-kick scorers, having reached 72 goals from direct free kicks. The leader in this ranking is Marcelinho Carioca with 78 goals, while Roberto Dinamite sits second with 72, both Brazilian players.

Another free kick goal for Messi

Against Jordan, it was not the first time Messi scored from a free kick at a World Cup. His first goal from this type of set piece came at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, with Nigeria as the opponent.

In that match, Argentina would go on to win 3-2 in what was a thrilling contest between both sides. Messi’s team would eventually lose the final to Germany at the Maracana.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s only one

Ronaldo‘s only goal from this type of set piece came at the Russia 2018 World Cup, in the memorable 3-3 group stage draw against Spain. In the 88th minute, he struck a powerful shot into the top right corner past David de Gea to complete his hat-trick that night.

Across his six World Cup appearances (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026), the Portuguese star has scored a total of 10 goals, becoming his country’s all-time leading scorer in the tournament after surpassing Eusebio’s record during the 2026 edition.

Addressing the growing scrutiny surrounding Ronaldo, Martinez stoutly defended his decision to leave the 41-year-old icon on the pitch for the full 90 minutes. “Cristiano is a player who is used to being in the right place at the right time. He is incredibly disciplined in his positioning and creates vital space for his teammates. His physical and mental condition is absolutely not in question,“ Martinez told the media in his post-match press conference.

While Martinez dismissed critics taking aim at Ronaldo’s quiet night against Colombia, the manager did hint at tactical adjustments ahead of their win-or-go-home date with Croatia. “We may need to make changes in the next match, but we base every decision on the information and data we have at our disposal,” Martinez remarked.

The draw also officially dashes any lingering fan hopes of a fairytale Ronaldo vs. Lionel Messi quarterfinal showdown, as the results locked the legendary rivals onto opposite sides of the bracket. Instead, Portugal must focus on a dangerous Croatia squad that has completely rediscovered its rhythm after a brutal 4-2 opening-match loss to England, giving Martinez plenty of tactical headaches to sort out over the next few days.

Cristiano’s quiet night against Colombia

Throughout the group stage, Ronaldo’s legendary scoring prowess was on display only during a 5-0 rout of Uzbekistan, a victory that ultimately cushioned Portugal’s path to the knockout rounds. However, when facing stiffer competition in DR Congo and Colombia, the captain failed to make a significant impact, turning in some of the quietest statistical performances of his World Cup career.

A closer look at his underlying numbers against Colombia highlights his struggles to influence the match:

• Minutes Played: 90
• Goals / Assists: 0 / 0
• Shots (On Target): 1 (1)
• Total Passes (Accurate): 24 (22)
• Fouls Committed / Was Fouled: 1 / 2
• Overall Match Rating: 4.5

This dip in form has predictably ignited a firestorm of media criticism. Pundits have been quick to compare Ronaldo’s quiet stretch to the explosive, tournament-defining performances of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Erling Haaland. Yet, as he has done his entire career, Cristiano now has the perfect opportunity to silence the noise when the lights shine brightest in the single-elimination rounds.

When do Portugal and Croatia play?

Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal will square off against Croatia in a blockbuster Round of 32 elimination match on Thursday, July 2, 2026. The high-stakes knockout clash is scheduled to kick off at 7:00 PM ET and will take place at Toronto Stadium (BMO Field) in Toronto, Canada.

Ronaldo had admitted that facing Messi would be “top,” and this could have taken place in the quarterfinals. However, Portugal’s path has now changed completely and has become much more complicated.

Roberto Martinez’s side will first have to face Croatia in the Round of 32. If they advance to the Round of 16, they will meet the winner of the match between Spain and the second-placed team from Group J.

What’s next for Argentina?

As the defending champions advance to the Round of 32 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Argentina are heading into the high-stakes, single-elimination knockout stage in phenomenal shape. Lionel Messi, who has been in clinical, history-making form with five goals in the group stage, will lead La Albiceleste as they face Cape Verde in Miami on Friday, July 3rd at 6:00 PM ET.

Backed by a highly cohesive squad, Messi’s leadership and sharp precision will be the absolute focal point in this crucial clash as Argentina begin their definitive path toward defending the world title.

A tough draw for Portugal

Following their 0–0 draw against Colombia to close out the group stage, Portugal are set for a massive showdown in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Cristiano Ronaldo and his squad will face Croatia at Toronto Stadium on Thursday, July 2nd at 7:00 PM ET.

This highly anticipated knockout clash in Canada brings together two legendary generation-defining icons, Ronaldo and Luka Modric, in a high-stakes battle where only one can keep their ultimate World Cup dream alive.

Can Cristiano Ronaldo play against Lionel Messi in 2026 World Cup? Yes. If Roberto Martínez’s side finishes top of Group K, a potential showdown with Argentina could await in the quarterfinals.

South Florida is set for a soccer spectacle as it hosts one of the most compelling matchups of Matchday 3 in the group stage. Which of these two teams will ultimately claim the top spot?

Portugal confirmed lineup

Portugal must beat Colombia, currently at No. 11 in FIFA rankings, to secure first place in Group K. With so much at stake, Roberto Martinez decided to field his strongest possible lineup from the opening whistle, unleashing his full arsenal for this decisive showdown.

Portugal’s starting XI vs. Colombia: Diogo Costa; Joao Cancelo, Ruben Dias, Renato Veiga, Nuno Mendes; Joao Neves, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes; Joao Felix, Pedro Neto, Cristiano Ronaldo (C).

Colombia confirmed lineup

Nestor Lorenzo’s side enters the final group-stage match as the sole leader with a perfect record and has no intention of allowing Portugal to snatch the top spot. To preserve their advantage, Colombia deployed a solid starting XI, with the surprising absences of Daniel Munoz and Luis Suarez.

Colombia’s starting lineup to face Portugal: Camilo Vargas; Jhon Lucumi, Santiago Arias, Gustavo Puerta, Deiver Machado, Davinson Sanchez; James Rodrigues (C), Jhon Arias, Jefferson Lerma; Luis Diaz, Jhon Cordoba.

Group K standings ahead of Matchday 3

Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo could potentially slip to third place in the Group K standings if they lose to Colombia and DR Congo defeat Uzbekistan, though the final outcome would also depend on goal difference. Ahead of the final round of group-stage matches, here’s how Group K stands:

Portugal entered their final Group K match needing a victory to secure first place in the standings. However, they failed. Meanwhile, Argentina have already locked up the top spot in Group J after victories over Algeria and Austria, with Messi enjoying a spectacular tournament that has already produced five goals.

For millions of soccer fans around the world, an epic meeting between Messi and Ronaldo would be one of the greatest matches in the history of the sport. The path to that showdown, however, just suffered a big plot twist.

How Lionel Messi can play vs Cristiano Ronaldo in 2026 World Cup?

No. Portugal needed a win over Colombia to finish first in Group K. Only that way, Cristiano Ronaldo’s side could meet Argentina in the quarterfinals. That blockbuster showdown would have taken place on Saturday, July 11, in Kansas City. Now, that won’t happen.

What happens after Portugal tie today vs Colombia?

Everything changed. Portugal finished second in Group K and move to the opposite side of the knockout bracket. Under that scenario, Portugal will face Croatia in the Round of 32 before a potential Round of 16 clash against Spain. Most importantly, Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal would no longer be able to meet Messi and Argentina until the World Cup final.

The French winger needed just 32 minutes to score three times, producing one of the fastest hat-tricks ever recorded at a men’s World Cup. An amazing achievement.

The performance also put him in exclusive company by achieving something neither Lionel Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo accomplished during their legendary World Cup careers.

Dembele joins exclusive World Cup history in France vs Norway

According to statistics compiled by Alexis Martin-Tamayo Blazquez, better known as MisterChip, Ousmane Dembele registered the second-fastest hat-trick in FIFA World Cup history.

Only Austria’s Erich Probst reached three goals faster, doing so after 24 minutes against Czechoslovakia at the 1954 World Cup. The fastest World Cup hat-tricks are now:

1. Erich Probst (Austria) – 24′ vs Czechoslovakia (1954)
2. Ousmane Dembele (France) – 32′ vs Norway (2026)
3. Gary Lineker (England) – 35′ vs Poland (1986)
4. Gerd Müller (West Germany) – 38′ vs Bulgaria (1970)
5. Gustav Wetterström (Sweden) – 44′ vs Cuba (1938)

Something Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo never achieved in World Cup

Ousmane Dembele’s feat is even more remarkable considering that neither Lionel Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo ever scored a hat-trick in the first-half at a FIFA World Cup.

Both icons have produced unforgettable moments across multiple editions of the tournament, but neither managed to find the net three times so early in a single World Cup match. Dembele has now accomplished that milestone in spectacular fashion, adding another memorable chapter to France’s World Cup history.

“Facing Leo Messi at the World Cup? The question doesn’t make a lot of sense… but ok. It would be TOP,” Ronaldo told reporters following Portugal’s dominant 5-0 routing of Uzbekistan, a match where the superstar netted a brilliant brace.

By doing so, Ronaldo eclipsed Messi as the oldest player to score a brace in a World Cup match. However, the Portuguese icon remains fiercely locked in on the ultimate prize rather than individual milestones or hypothetical matchups, adding: “But my focus was on today. We won, I have been able to score, we keep going together. I am happy.”

While initially addressing a question about Messi, Cristiano pointedly deflected any further inquiries regarding his longtime Argentine rival’s World Cup form. The Portuguese icon made it clear that his sole focus remains on his own output and navigating Portugal deep into the knockout stages to hunt for the elusive World Cup title.

Ronaldo silences critics vs. Uzbekistan

Following a frustrating tournament opener where he went scoreless against the DR Congo, Ronaldo’s brilliant two-goal masterclass against Uzbekistan quickly silenced critics who had begun questioning his role with the national team ahead of their toughest challenges.

Even manager Roberto Martinez publicly rallied behind his captain, emphatically stating that Ronaldo remains the most decisive player in the Portuguese setup. That unconditional backing from the coaching staff will be vital as Portugal fuels its championship aspirations.

With a knockout berth nearly secure, it is now only a matter of time before Portugal learns its Round of 32 opponent, a fate that will be determined following a heavyweight group-stage finale against Colombia on June 27.

Once the match had ended, where Ronaldo managed to pull ahead of Messi by achieving an impressive record, during the routine press questions, the Al Nassr forward asked the journalist if he spoke Spanish. As soon as he heard his colleagues’ names, he immediately moved on to another reporter.

Comparisons are always a constant when it comes to these soccer stars. Messi has already scored 5 goals, Mbappe has scored 4, and it was only a matter of time before the press asked Cristiano Ronaldo about the situation.

It appears the Portugal national team forward does not want to get into that discussion and quickly shut down those questions. Can Ronaldo continue among the World Cup’s top scorers?

The confession of Cristiano Ronaldo

Portugal’s World Cup debut against Congo was not easy. Not only because of the final result and the failure to secure a win, but also because of Ronaldo’s performance level, as he admitted it was a “tough week.”

CR7 quickly managed to bounce back from this situation, scoring a brace against Uzbekistan. His team powered through the match with a dominant 5-0 win and improved their position in the Group K standings moving forward.