Messi defends a crown, Ronaldo chases one: Two icons begin their World Cup journey

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are preparing to embark on what is widely expected to be the final FIFA World Cup journey of their storied careers, as Argentina and Portugal begin their respective campaigns at the 2026 tournament.

Having made their World Cup debuts in Germany in 2006, the two football icons are set to become the first male players in history to feature in six editions of the competition. Twenty years after first gracing football’s biggest stage, Messi and Ronaldo return once more with different ambitions but a shared desire to end their World Cup careers on a high.

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For Messi, the challenge is to lead defending champions Argentina in their bid to retain the title they won in Qatar. For Ronaldo, the tournament represents another opportunity to capture the one major trophy that has eluded him throughout his glittering career.

Argentina vs Algeria: Champions begin their title defence

Argentina open their World Cup campaign against Algeria on June 17, with Messi once again expected to be the driving force behind La Albiceleste’s ambitions.

The reigning world champions arrive among the favourites after maintaining the core of the squad that lifted the trophy four years ago. Alongside Messi, players such as Julián Álvarez and Emiliano Martínez will be crucial as Argentina aim to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend a World Cup crown.

Algeria, however, will be eager to spoil the party. Led by experienced winger Riyad Mahrez and supported by Mohamed Amoura and Rayan Aït-Nouri, the North Africans possess enough quality to challenge any opponent on their day.

Portugal vs DR Congo: Ronaldo’s quest continues

Meanwhile, Portugal begin their campaign against DR Congo carrying significant expectations after their recent UEFA Nations League success.

Despite being in the twilight of his career, Ronaldo remains the focal point of a talented Portuguese squad featuring Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha and several emerging stars. The veteran forward will be determined to guide Portugal deep into the tournament as he pursues the only major honour missing from his remarkable résumé.

Portugal will also carry extra motivation as they honour the memory and aspirations associated with forward Diogo Jota’s dream of helping the nation conquer the world stage.

Standing in their way first are DR Congo, who return to the World Cup with a dynamic squad led by Yoane Wissa, Meschack Elia and captain Chancel Mbemba. Known for their athleticism and attacking threat, the African side will be looking to make an immediate statement against one of Europe’s strongest teams.

As Argentina and Portugal kick off their campaigns, the spotlight will inevitably remain on Messi and Ronaldo, two players whose careers have defined an era and whose final World Cup journey promises to be one of the defining stories of the tournament.