Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo enters the 2026 FIFA World Cup opener against DR Congo with extra motivation after Lionel Messi made headlines with a record-breaking performance.
Messi scored a hat-trick as Argentina began their title defence with a convincing victory over Algeria, creating another memorable World Cup moment.
Messi Breaks Ronaldo’s Record
The Argentina captain’s three-goal performance saw him become the oldest player to score a hat-trick in World Cup history.
Messi’s achievement surpassed the previous record held by Ronaldo, who scored three goals against Spain during the 2018 tournament.
Ronaldo Chasing His Own Milestone
At 41 years old, Ronaldo will lead Portugal into their opening match hoping to make an impact on the biggest stage once again.
The Al Nassr forward is competing in his fifth World Cup and remains focused on helping Portugal challenge for the trophy.
Portugal Begin Their Campaign
The European side will rely on Ronaldo’s experience as they begin their tournament journey.
The veteran forward will be aiming to add more goals to his international record and continue his historic career.
Another Chapter in Football’s Greatest Rivalry
The Messi-Ronaldo rivalry continues to attract global attention, with both players still creating unforgettable moments late in their careers.
The 2026 World Cup could provide another memorable chapter between two of football’s biggest icons.