Dream encounter final of Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo is very much on the cards.When the 2022 edition of the FIFA World Cup began in Qatar on November 20,2022. Two names were mainly in focus – Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. At the age of 35 and 37 respectively, the 2 greats of modern times were all set to play what is undoubtedly their last World Cup.
Final of Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo
In 2026, Messi will be 39 and Ronaldo 41, so the chances of them being on national duty 4 years from now are almost nil.
For all their success at club and international level, both these legends have one vital piece of silverware missing from their cabinet. Yes, you must have understood, we are talking about the World Cup. Ronaldo led Portugal to European champions six years ago, while Messi led Argentina to Copa America glory last year, but with all due respect to the 2 tournaments, it’s a different planet. The World Cup is the ultimate prize.
Sadly only one of them would end up with the trophy. The debate of who is the better player has divided fans for nearly two decades. If one of those ends with the World Cup, it can be at least partially put to rest.
How did Portugal qualify for Round of 16?
Portugal made an impressive start to the tournament with a 3–2 win against Ghana. Then he beat Uruguay 2-0. Despite losing 1–2 against South Korea, it qualified for the last 16 with 6 points.
How did Argentina qualify for the round of 16?
After a shocking 1–2 defeat against Saudi Arabia in their opening match, Lionel Messi and boys went on to beat Mexico and Poland back-to-back, scoring two goals each in the matches. With six points under their belt, Argentina went into the Round of 16 as group toppers.
How did Portugal qualify for the quarter-finals?
Portugal defeated Switzerland 6–1 in the round of 16, with a hat-trick by 21-year-old Goncalo Ramos, and reached the quarter-finals. Cristiano Ronaldo did not start the game for his team and was only sent off in the 73rd minute.
How did Argentina qualify for the quarter finals?
Argentina defeated Australia 2–1 in the round of 16 with a goal from Lionel Messi and advanced to the quarter-finals.
Who are Portugal’s opponents in the quarter-finals?
Portugal will face Morocco in the quarter-finals. Morocco had earlier defeated Spain 3-0 in a penalty shoot-out.
Who are Argentina’s opponents in the quarter-finals?
Argentina will face the Netherlands in the quarter-finals. The Dutch had earlier defeated America 3-1.
Who are Portugal’s possible opponents in the semi-finals?
Portugal will play the winner of the France vs England match in the semi-finals. But to reach the semi-finals, they will have to beat Morocco first.
Who are Argentina’s possible opponents in the semi-finals?
Argentina will play the winner of the Croatia vs Brazil match in the semi-finals. But, to reach the semi-finals, they will have to beat Netherlands first.
Argentina vs Portugal in the final will be the ultimate treat for football fans as they will get to see Messi and Ronaldo battle it out on the pitch for the title. No, this is not wishful thinking, it could actually happen. Actually, the way things are looking at the moment, Messi and Ronaldo can compete in the final only.
As both will probably ride on at least one international level, after the sunset of this tournament, it would be nice for both to sign off with a blaze of glory.
Of course, we do not get ahead of ourselves. Firstly, both the sides have to win their next 2 games. If even one of them falters, there is no question of a dream final. It doesn’t matter if both falter. If both make it, the fact that it’s a World Cup final could be overshadowed by the Messi vs Ronaldo factor.
So let’s wait and see whether or not the Messi vs Ronaldo encounter takes place in the final on 18th December. It is possible, even probable. But of course it is not set in stone. Only time will tell.