The historic achievement comes nearly 20 years after both players made their World Cup debuts in Germany in 2006. Ronaldo, who was recently nominated for an individual award in Saudi Arabia, will once again lead Portugal, while Messi is expected to captain the defending world champions Argentina.

Beyond the World Cup record itself, both superstars are also continuing their chase toward major personal milestones. Messi currently has 910 career goals and sits 90 away from reaching 1,000, while Ronaldo enters the tournament with 971 career goals, leaving him just 29 away from the historic mark.

Ronaldo and Messi’s best World Cup performances with Portugal and Argentina

Ronaldo’s strongest World Cup campaign came in 2006, when Portugal reached the semifinals in Germany before finishing fourth. While Ronaldo has enjoyed major success internationally with Portugal, including winning UEFA Euro 2016, the World Cup title has remained out of reach throughout his career.

Messi delivered the best World Cup performance of his career during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The Argentina captain played a decisive role throughout the tournament and scored twice in the unforgettable final against France as Argentina secured their third world title in a dramatic penalty shootout.

Ronaldo and Messi on the verge of World Cup history

Before Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi potentially reach six World Cup appearances, only a select group of legendary players had participated in five different tournaments. Ronaldo and Messi already joined this historic group after featuring in the 2022 World Cup.

The achievement would further separate Ronaldo and Messi from every other player in World Cup history, cementing their place in a category of their own as they move into the 2026 tournament and toward one of the most significant milestones in the history of the competition.

With several mainstay fixtures completely absent from the squad—most notably Pepe and Raphael Guerreiro—Portugal are betting on a new generation to capture their first-ever World Cup title. These are the 11 Qatar 2022 veterans whom Martinez ultimately left off the 2026 roster:

• Rui Patricio
• Pepe
• Antonio Silva
• Raphael Guerreiro
• William Carvalho
• Danilo Pereira
• Otavio
• Joao Palhinha
• Joao Mario
• Ricardo Horta
• Andre Silva

While legendary figures like Pepe have officially hung up their boots, the omission of veterans like Rui Patricio and Raphael Guerreiro mark a distinct changing of the guard. Both had been virtually untouchable on the international stage, but inconsistent club campaigns left them on the outside looking in.

Portugal shake up the blueprint for North America

As Cristiano Ronaldo pushes to win his first official title with Al Nassr, in the global stage he is surrounded by a contingent of in-form stars. Portugal want to prove they have the depth to finally secure soccer’s ultimate prize, looking to break through a glass ceiling that previously halted them in the semifinals in 1966 and 2006.

With 11 veterans out, 12 fresh faces have stepped into Portugal’s 27-man bubble, as Martinez decided to call up a fourth goalkeeper, but just three of them will be traveling to the World Cup. Here are the newcomers tasked with injecting life into the squad’s championship ambitions in North America:

• Ricardo Velho
• Rui Silva
• Matheus Nunes
• Nelson Semedo
• Goncalo Inacio
• Renato Veiga
• Tomas Araujo
• Samuel Costa
• Joao Neves
• Goncalo Guedes
• Trincao
• Francisco Conceicao

Portugal’s initial 27-man World Cup roster

Beyond the 12 fresh call-ups integrated by Martinez, the core of the roster relies on 15 battle-tested veterans from the Qatar 2022 cycle. Here is the initial squad list heading into the World Cup:

• Goalkeepers
  • Diogo Costa (FC Porto)
  • Jose Sa (Wolverhampton Wanderers)
  • Rui Silva (Sporting CP)
  • Ricardo Velho (Genclerbirligi)
• Defenders
  • Ruben Dias (Manchester City)
  • Joao Cancelo (Barcelona)
  • Diogo Dalot (Manchester United)
  • Nuno Mendes (Paris Saint-Germain)
  • Nelson Semedo (Fenerbahce)
  • Goncalo Inacio (Sporting CP)
  • Matheus Nunes (Manchester City)
  • Renato Veiga (Villarreal)
  • Tomas Araujo (S.L. Benfica)
• Midfielders
  • Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United)
  • Bernardo Silva (Manchester City)
  • Vitinha (Paris Saint-Germain)
  • João Neves (Paris Saint-Germain)
  • Ruben Neves (Al Hilal)
  • Samu Costa (RCD Mallorca)
  • Mateus Fernandes (West Ham United)
  • Joao Felix (Al Nassr)
• Forwards
  • Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr)
  • Rafael Leao (AC Milan)
  • Goncalo Ramos (Paris Saint-Germain)
  • Pedro Neto (Chelsea)
  • Francisco Conceicao (Juventus)
  • Goncalo Guedes (Real Sociedad)

“We know there are teams arriving in better form, but this Argentina side is going to compete and give its all,” Messi stated during an interview with Joaquin Alvarez on Lo del Pollo. “France are looking very good again, with many high-level players. Spain, Brazil—who are always candidates—Germany, England, and Portugal, who also have a very competitive squad”.

Both Messi and Ronaldo are set to make history in the 2026 World Cup as the only players to participate in six different editions of the tournament. Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa could potentially join them in this feat, though his participation this year has yet to be officially confirmed.

The final chapter of a historic rivalry

Barring any future surprises at the club level, the 2026 World Cup looms as the final chapter of the historic rivalry between Messi and Ronaldo, which has defined the sport for two decades.

During the interview, Messi reflected on their long-standing competition, describing it as a “beautiful” sporting battle built on mutual respect. “What happened was a beautiful sporting rivalry. It’s a natural thing in the world of soccer,” Messi remarked. “Our relationship was always good and respectful, and everything that happened was purely athletic. There was nothing personal. We didn’t see each other often except at matches or award ceremonies, and we were always on good terms”.

When could Messi and Ronaldo Clash in the 2026 WC?

With both teams serving as top seeds in their respective groups, there are two primary scenarios for Messi and Ronaldo to face off once more on the world’s biggest stage.

The earliest possibility would see both teams finishing second in their groups, which could trigger a potential showdown in the Round of 16. However, this is considered the least likely outcome, given that both squads are favorites to finish as group leaders.

The more probable path involves both Argentina and Portugal winning their groups. In this scenario, provided they both advance through their initial knockout matches, the two legends would be on a collision course for a massive quarterfinal clash.

“The national team has already determined its opponent for the last preparation match before the 2026 World Cup. Portugal will face Nigeria on June 10,” the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) officially confirmed on Thursday.

While there is no venue confirmed, reports indicate that the match is set to take place at the Municipal Stadium of Leiria. Additionally, the federation confirmed that just days earlier, Portugal will face Chile on June 6 at the Jamor National Stadium in Lisbon.

A final tune-up for Cristiano

Cristiano Ronaldo was a notable absentee during the March FIFA window, as he was in the final stages of recovery from a hamstring injury sustained while playing for Al Nassr. However, the striker is set to return to action after Jorge Jesus provided a positive injury update on Ronaldo.

Provided there are no further setbacks, the legendary forward is expected to lead the team in these home farewell matches before they depart for North America.

In his absence, Roberto Martinez’s squad recorded mixed results during its tour of the host nations, playing out a scoreless draw against Mexico at the Estadio Azteca and securing a 2–0 victory over the United States at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Repeating the 2022 formula

Ahead of the 2022 Qatar World Cup, the Portuguese national team followed a similar preparation plan by scheduling a friendly against Nigeria just days before the tournament’s kickoff. The two sides met on November 17, 2022—only three days before the World Cup officially began on November 20.

On that occasion, Portugal secured a dominant 4–0 victory at the Estadio Jose Alvalade, featuring a brace from Bruno Fernandes and goals from Goncalo Ramos and Joao Mario. Notably, Cristiano Ronaldo was left out of then-manager Fernando Santos’ squad for that match due to a bout of gastritis.

“Why would Argentina not rely on Messi or Portugal not rely on Cristiano Ronaldo? This is totally normal… In the absence of Harry Kane, we don’t have the same threat,” Tuchel told ITV when asked about the team’s perceived over-reliance on the striker.

England left a poor impression following a 1–1 draw against Uruguay and a surprising 1–0 defeat to Japan. The team’s lack of offensive intensity and a focal point in attack was evident, as its only goal across both matches came via defender Ben White off a corner kick.

Argentina and Portugal prove they can win without Messi and Ronaldo

While Tuchel’s assessment of a team’s dependence on a superstar holds weight, both Argentina and Portugal have demonstrated the ability to secure results without their legendary icons on the pitch. Roberto Martinez’s men proved this during the March FIFA window, securing a 2–0 victory over the USMNT, even though they were later held to a scoreless draw against Mexico.

Argentina have also shown they can thrive without their captain in even higher-stakes environments. Lionel Scaloni’s men managed a 1–0 win over Uruguay without Messi and famously thrashed Brazil 4–1 in March 2025 during the World Cup Qualifiers, proving the depth of the world champions’ squad.

Harry Kane’s monstrous season

Kane’s absence is even more striking when looking at the incredible numbers he has put up so far this season. Across 40 matches in all competitions for Bayern Munich, the English striker has a staggering 48 goals, making him by far the top scorer for both his club and the Bundesliga.

The impact Kane has on any team is immense, and his absence is equally significant. “Bayern Munich in the absence of Harry Kane does not have the same threat. No team in the world has the same threat,” Tuchel concluded in his analysis of the forward’s importance.

So far in 2026, both Messi and Ronaldo are deadlocked with eight goals each. The Inter Miami captain’s tally includes two goals during preseason friendlies, four in MLS play, one in the Concacaf Champions Cup, and his latest international goal for Argentina.

In contrast, all eight of Ronaldo’s goals this year have come in the Saudi Pro League. He has recorded 21 total goals during the 2025-26 season, currently placing him third in the Golden Boot race behind Julian Quiñones and Ivan Toney.

Why didn’t Ronaldo play for Portugal in March friendlies?

There was significant anticipation in Mexico and the United States for Cristiano Ronaldo’s appearance in Portugal’s friendlies in both countries. However, manager Roberto Martinez opted not to call up soccer’s all-time leading scorer as he was in the final stages of recovering from a hamstring injury.

The injury, sustained while playing for Al Nassr, also sidelined the striker for two Saudi Pro League matches, in which his team secured victories over NEOM and Al Khaalej. Now fully recovered, Ronaldo is expected to return to action on Friday, April 3, when Al Nassr host Al Najma.

The race to 1,000 career goals

Ronaldo remains the all-time leading scorer in soccer history, with Messi trailing in second place. Following his goal against Zambia, Messi has reached 902 career goals. Meanwhile, Ronaldo sits at 965 career goals ahead of the Al Najma fixture.

Standing just 35 goals away from the four-digit mark and with his scoring touch firmly intact—having scored four goals in his last three matches—it is highly probable that the Al-Nassr captain will become the first player to reach 1,000 goals this season.

Following a lackluster 2-0 loss to a Portugal side that rested Cristiano Ronaldo, Pochettino didn’t mince words about the talent gap his squad currently faces.

“Belgium and Portugal both have players in that ‘top 100’ tier, players performing at the highest elite level. Right now, I don’t think we have that,” Pochettino told reporters. “We have to be honest about where we are if we want to bridge that gap before June.”

A depleted roster or a deeper issue?

While the results were sobering, the USMNT was far from full strength. A localized “injury crisis” in the backline forced Pochettino into experimental lineups, including playing winger Tim Weah at right-back to counter the pace of Belgium’s Jeremy Doku.

The list of absentees for the March window reads like a “who’s who” of the American starting XI:

• Chris Richards (Crystal Palace): Knee inflammation forced him out of camp.
• Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati): Groin injury sustained during training in Atlanta.
• Sergiño Dest (PSV Eindhoven): Still sidelined with a lingering hamstring issue from early March.
• James Sands (NYCFC): Ruled out for the season; his World Cup hopes are effectively over.
• Tyler Adams (Bournemouth): The captain missed the window entirely with a quad injury.
• Antonee “Jedi” Robinson (Fulham): While in camp, the left-back was kept on a strict “minutes restriction.”

Despite the “growing talent” narrative often touted by U.S. Soccer, conceding five goals to Belgium and failing to find the net against Portugal’s B-team highlights a lack of depth that could prove fatal in the group stages.

The road to the final 26

The clock is officially ticking. Pochettino now has less than two months to evaluate his options before the May 30 deadline to submit his final World Cup roster.

Insiders expect the formal announcement to come between May 26 and May 28, just ahead of the team’s final tune-up matches against Senegal and Germany. For the players on the bubble, the “reality check” in Atlanta may have been the final deciding factor in whether they make the flight to the World Cup opener.

The game started with a lot of intensity from the home team, with Christian Pulisic leading most of the attacks. Nevertheless, it was Portugal who scored first with a goal by Francisco Trincao in the first half.

For the second 45 minutes, Portugal dominated the game completely. Joao Felix scored the second goal of the night with a beautiful shot to secure the victory on the road.

[Watch USA vs Portugal online in the US on DirecTV Stream]

The United States enters its next test looking to regroup after a disappointing 5-2 loss to Belgium that raised serious concerns. Now, the Americans turn their attention to another European powerhouse, Portugal.

The Portuguese squad is coming off a quiet 0-0 draw against Mexico and will be without Cristiano Ronaldo, who is not playing against the USA today as he is recovering from a hamstring injury.

When will the USA vs Portugal match be played?

USA take on Portugal in a 2026 friendly game this Tuesday, March 31, with the match kicking off at 7:00 PM (ET). Follow our liveblog of USA vs Portugal and don’t miss anything!

USA vs Portugal: Time by State in the USA

ET: 7:00 PM
CT: 6:00 PM
MT: 5:00 PM
PT: 4:00 PM

How to watch USA vs Portugal in the USA

This Friendly clash between USA and Portugal will be available for viewers in the USA on DirecTV Stream. Other options: Sling Blue, Peacock Premium, Max, Sling Orange, Hulu + Live TV, TNT, TruTV, Telemundo, Universo.

The veteran forward was left out of the squad after failing to recover in time, with the focus now firmly on protecting his fitness ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The absence of the captain immediately reshapes the narrative.

Coach Roberto Martinez has opted for caution, though Portugal’s lineup against the USMNT is still including world-renowned names. While the spotlight shifts away from CR7, the matchup still carries major weight for both sides.

When and how did Cristiano Ronaldo get injured?

Cristiano Ronaldo suffered a right hamstring injury on February 28 while playing for Al Nassr in a league match against Al Fayha, and he has been sidelined since then without returning to action.

The injury occurred during a 3-1 win, when the forward experienced discomfort in his thigh, later diagnosed as a muscular issue. Since that moment, he has missed both club matches and Portugal’s international call-up.

There was no single dramatic incident—rather, it was a typical muscle strain linked to workload and fatigue. Still, given his age and importance, both club and country opted for a conservative timeline to avoid any setback ahead of the World Cup.

He even traveled for specialized treatment and rehabilitation, reinforcing that the focus has been on full recovery rather than rushing him back for friendlies like the one against the United States.

When will Cristiano Ronaldo return to play for Portugal?

Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to return to action in early April with Al Nassr, with his comeback depending on how he responds after being cleared to resume training following his hamstring injury.

Medical updates indicate that the injury is not considered serious, and Portugal’s coaching staff has emphasized that he is not at risk of missing the 2026 World Cup. The decision to sit him out against both Mexico and the United States is strictly precautionary.

The timeline suggests he could be back in competitive matches within one to two weeks, aligning with club commitments before the next international window.

Ultimately, both Portugal national team and Al Nassr are aligned on one objective: ensuring CR7 reaches peak condition for what is expected to be his final FIFA World Cup appearance, rather than risking him in pre-tournament friendlies.

The USMNT, meanwhile, look to respond after a difficult 5–2 loss to Belgium, with head coach Mauricio Pochettino expected to adjust his approach after an attacking setup that backfired in the previous match.

Historically, the matchup has been tight, with both teams recording two draws and no wins. This friendly offers both sides an opportunity to test adjustments, evaluate depth, and build momentum ahead of future competitions. Follow USA vs Portugal live with us!

USA lineup

Here’s how the USMNT lines up today: Matt Freese, Auston Trusty, Chris Richards (capt.), Antonee Robinson, Weston McKennie, Christian Pulisic, Sebastian Berhalter, Alex Freeman, Malik Tillman, Tim Weah, Aidan Morris.

Portugal lineup

Without Ronaldo, Portugal will show up with the following lineup: Jose Sa, Diogo Dalot, Tomas Araujo, Goncalo Inacio, Joao Cancelo, Samu Costa, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, Francisco Trincao, Pedro Neto, Goncalo Ramos.