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Published：May 18, 16:00Last updated：Jun 5, 20:00

Ronaldo and Messi Make History in 2026 World Cup as Squads Finalize

China.org
May. 18, 2026 16:00
Portugal's 2026 World Cup squad includes 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo, making him the first player to participate in six World Cups. Ronaldo has scored eight goals in 22 World Cup appearances but has yet to score in the knockout stages. Portugal's best performance was reaching the semifinals in 2006. The team qualified for the tournament after a 9-1 victory over Armenia in the final round of European qualifiers.
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China.org
Jun. 5, 2026 16:00
Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, is set to compete in his sixth World Cup, a historic feat. Having scored in five consecutive World Cups, Ronaldo aims to extend his record in the 2026 tournament, co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico. His recent Saudi league victory adds momentum to his campaign.
RIA Novosti
Jun. 5, 2026 20:00
Lionel Scaloni, head coach of the Argentine national football team, admitted on June 5, 2026, that he regularly consults with Lionel Messi before making important decisions. Scaloni emphasized Messi's significant influence on the team's performance. Under Scaloni's leadership, Argentina has won multiple titles, including the 2022 World Cup.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are set to make football history by becoming the first players to compete in six FIFA World Cups during the 2026 tournament in North America. The 41-year-old Ronaldo was named in Portugal's squad, while 38-year-old Messi will captain defending champions Argentina, marking an unprecedented milestone for both legends. Their participation comes as FIFA confirms all 48 nations have submitted final rosters totaling 1,248 players.China.org+2

⚽ Ronaldo's Record-Breaking Campaign

Cristiano Ronaldo, fresh from a Saudi league victory, aims to extend his record of scoring in six consecutive World Cups. Despite criticism about his age potentially hindering Portugal's chances, the Al-Nassr forward remains determined to deliver his first knockout-stage goal. Portugal's squad blends veterans with emerging talents like Joao Neves and PSG's Vitinha, having qualified dominantly with a 9-1 win over Armenia.The Japan Times+2

🌟 Messi's Continued Influence

Lionel Messi will lead Argentina's title defense with coach Lionel Scaloni confirming his plans to play beyond the 2026 tournament. The Inter Miami star, recovering from a minor injury, could reach 200 international caps during preparations. Scaloni revealed he regularly consults Messi on key decisions, highlighting the captain's enduring impact. The squad features 17 players from their 2022 championship team, including Emiliano Martinez and Julian Alvarez.China.org+2

🏆 Argentina's Emotional Journey

Former Argentine international Maxi Rodríguez reflected on Messi's career, noting how the 2022 World Cup victory silenced critics. He humorously recalled passing his 'magic' to Messi during their 2006 substitution and praised both Messi and Maradona as football's greatest. Rodríguez emphasized the emotional significance of Argentina's triumph, describing it as a culmination of national pride and collective effort.China.org+2

🌎 Global Tournament Landscape

Uruguay announced their squad without retired legend Luis Suárez, while other veterans like Modric and Dzeko will feature. The expanded 48-team format includes debutants like Algeria and Jordan in Argentina's group. FIFA's released rosters highlight a record 1,248 players across three host nations.RIA Novosti+2

📈 Commercial and Competitive Impact

The dual participation of Ronaldo and Messi has boosted commercial interest, with Chinese broadcaster CCTV securing rights anticipating record viewership. Sponsors are preparing campaigns around these icons as the tournament approaches. Argentina aims for back-to-back titles while Portugal seeks to surpass their 2006 semifinal finish.China.org+2

Lionel Messi2026 World CupCristiano RonaldoPortugal national teamArgentina national team

topic.regionalNarratives

China
China
Coverage highlights Messi's continued career beyond the 2026 World Cup and reflections on his legacy, alongside Ronaldo's historic sixth appearance.
Japan
Japan
Reporting focuses on Cristiano Ronaldo's sixth World Cup appearance and Portugal's strong form entering the tournament.
Russia
Russia
Coverage centers on Messi's advisory role within the Argentine national team and Scaloni's coaching approach.
Germany
Germany
Reporting emphasizes Argentina's inclusion of Messi in their World Cup squad despite his injury, marking his sixth tournament appearance.
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
Discussion centers on Cristiano Ronaldo's inclusion in Portugal's World Cup squad and the debate over his potential impact on the team.
Canada
Canada
Reporting highlights the final FIFA World Cup rosters, featuring star players like Messi, Ronaldo, and Ochoa, and the record number of participants.
France
France
Reporting emphasizes Cristiano Ronaldo's inclusion in Portugal's squad for his sixth and final World Cup.
South Korea
South Korea
Coverage focuses on the consecutive World Cup appearances of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, highlighting their long-standing careers.

topic.topCountries (8/8)

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中国
China8
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俄罗斯
Russia4
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英国
United Kingdom3
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日本
Japan1
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加拿大
Canada1
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德国
Germany1
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韩国
South Korea1
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法国
France1

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China.org
China.org8
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RIA Novosti
RIA Novosti3
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BBC News
BBC News2
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The Japan Times
The Japan Times1
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CBC News
CBC News1
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The Guardian
The Guardian1
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Der Spiegel
Der Spiegel1
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Chosun Ilbo
Chosun Ilbo1
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Russian Gazette
Russian Gazette1
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Radio France Internationale
Radio France Internationale1

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Ronaldo and Messi Make History in 2026 World Cup as Squads Finalize | KoalaNews