Former Real Madrid star Wesley Sneijder has reignited debate by claiming that Cristiano Ronaldo has a better shot at winning the 2026 FIFA World Cup than Lionel Messi, asserting that Argentina was “lucky” during their 2022 triumph in Qatar.
Will Messi and Ronaldo Play at World Cup 2026?
Set to be the biggest tournament in history with 48 teams, World Cup 2026 will take place across the USA, Canada, and Mexico. With both Ronaldo and Messi in the twilight of their careers, fans are eager to know if football’s greatest icons will appear one last time on the global stage.
Ronaldo, who will be 41 by then, has hinted that this would be his final World Cup. His prolific form at Al Nassr suggests he’s far from done. Meanwhile, Messi, aged 38, hasn’t confirmed participation, but many expect him to return under coach Lionel Scaloni, possibly reaching the 200-cap milestone with Argentina.
Sneijder Backs Ronaldo and Portugal Over Messi’s Argentina
Despite Messi’s crowning moment in Qatar 2022, Sneijder believes Portugal is the superior team. “Portugal has a very strong squad. They’re one of the top contenders, and that gives Cristiano Ronaldo a better chance of winning the World Cup than Messi. Argentina had a great tournament, but luck was on their side. Overall, Portugal is the stronger team,” he said.
Revisiting the 2010 Ballon d’Or Debate
Sneijder also revisited the controversial Ballon d’Or 2010 outcome, which he felt he deserved after winning a treble with Inter Milan. He reflected, “It felt unfair that I didn’t win the Ballon d’Or in 2010 and Messi did. But I’m not one to complain. Individual awards mean less to me than team success. If I had to choose, I’d still pick the Champions League I won.”
The 1,000-Goal Chase
Despite already achieving legendary status Messi with 8 Ballon d’Ors and Ronaldo with 5 both stars are now chasing another milestone: 1,000 career goals. Ronaldo has publicly stated this as a goal, while Messi, under contract with Inter Miami until 2028, is also within reach.
Sneijder added: “That’s their next goal, 100% Cristiano won’t stop until he gets to 1,000. Messi will too. It’s exciting that even though one is in MLS and the other in the Saudi League, we’re still talking about their rivalry. Who knows—maybe we’ll start counting assists too and see who hits 2,000 first.”
Sources: 24h