Messi has scored 13 goals in 26 World Cup appearances. He has the most goal contributions and most minutes played in World Cup history. During the 2022 World Cup, he scored seven goals and provided three assists en route to lifting the crown for the third time in Argentina’s history.

Lionel Messi is looking for his second World Cup title and his third appearance in a final of soccer's biggest tournament. Cristiano Ronaldo is looking to reach his first ever final. Here's how it can happen and where the potential clash could occur next summer.

Finally, there was the coupe de Messi on this title game. He played a ball off his chest, and to his left foot, which popped a pass over the Vancouver defense in stoppage time. It was Allende sent in alone on goal this time. His goal in the 96th minute started the celebration.

World Cup draw assigns Kansas City three group-stage matches and two knockout ties. Group J will feature Argentina and Messi; Groups E and F list top-ranked European teams. Kansas City will host matches June 16–27 and may serve as team base camp and hub.

Already there are fixtures to capture the imagination, but for those serious about lifting the World Cup trophy in July, there is now thought being given to the potential routes that lead all the way through to the final at MetLife Stadium.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo enter the 2026 World Cup with legendary resumes with plenty of similarities and some big differences.