The prospect of a final showdown between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi at the 2026 World Cup is beginning to take shape, following the latest developments in the group stage and the shaping of potential matchups.

Argentina has already secured first place in its group (Group J), which allows for a clearer picture of the potential matchups in the knockout stage.

On the other hand, Portugal is heading into the final match of its group with all possibilities still open, as it could finish first, second, or even qualify as one of the best third-place teams.

There are three possible scenarios for a Portugal-Argentina matchup, as follows:

• Portugal finishes first in its group – Quarterfinals (July 11)
• Portugal finishes second in its group – Final (July 19)
• Portugal finishes third in its group – Semifinals (July 15)

*Photo source: AP