The group stage draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup was finalised on December 5. The schedule has been revealed. Argentina is in Group J. Portugal has secured a place in Group K. This has immediately sparked speculation about a potential face-off between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Being in the same pot, there is no possibility of both stars meeting in the group stage. However, if everything goes according to plan, the two stars could meet in the quarterfinals. Argentina and Portugal have faced each other in previous World Cups. But Messi and Ronaldo have never played against each other in this tournament. And for both, this is their last World Cup. So, there is much discussion about the possibility of them facing each other in the knockout stage.
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In which round could Messi-Ronaldo face each other?
Group 'J' features Argentina alongside Algeria, Austria and Jordan. Argentina will begin their World Cup campaign on June 16 with a match against Algeria. Messi and De Paul's team has bright prospects of becoming group champions by defeating these relatively easier opponents.
Argentina's official schedule at the World Cup 2026:
•June 16: Argentina vs Algeria
•June 22: Argentina vs Austria
•June 27: Argentina vs Jordan
On the other hand, Portugal has secured a place in Group K. The group includes Colombia and Uzbekistan. The winner of the Intercontinental Play-off 1 will get a place in this group. That means one team among Congo, Jamaica or New Caledonia. Among these teams, Colombia could pose a strong challenge to Portugal. However, Ronaldo and Bruno's team has prospects of becoming group champions.
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And after becoming champions in the group stage, both teams will have to win in the Round of 32 and Round of 16 matches as well. Only then will Argentina and Portugal face each other in the quarterfinals. In other words, if they go to the knockout stage by topping their groups, a face-off between Messi and Ronaldo will be confirmed.
The quarterfinal match will be held on July 11 at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, USA. Sports enthusiasts are keeping their hopes up for witnessing a Messi-Ronaldo duel in 'one last dance'.
