World Cup 2022: How Messi and Ronaldo Could Face Off in Qatar in Dream Clash

World Cup 2022: How Messi and Ronaldo Could Face Off in Qatar in Dream Clash

Fred Kennedy
updated at April 12, 2023 at 8:19 PM
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FIFA World Cup
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  • There is a real chance Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo could face off at the World Cup
  • The duo's respective countries have impressed in the tournament to react the quarters
  • Victories for both countries in their subsequent fixtures would set up a crunch encounter

The imagined scenario of Cristiano Ronaldo facing off with football rival Lionel Messi in a World Cup clash, could become a reality this year.

Despite their rich football history, Ronaldo's Portugal have never faced Messi's Argentina in a Mundial clash.

However, the 2022 edition of the tournament could afford fans a chance to watch the two football heavyweights in action.

Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal, FIFA World Cup, Qatar 2022, Lionel Messi, Argentina.
Cristiano Ronaldo after the match at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Round of 16 match between Portugal and Switzerland at the Lusail Stadium. Photo by Richard Sellers.
Source: Getty Images

Such a scenario would also present football lovers with the rare opportunity to witness 'the last dance' of Messi and Ronaldo.

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The duo has dominated the football scene for years, with the ongoing World Cup potentially their last, considering their advancing age.

How Messi could play Ronaldo

Argentina and Portugal, who are home to two of the greatest players in football history, have been impressive in the tournament so far.

The two teams are already through to the quarter-finals, with Portugal demolishing Switzerland 6-1 in the round of 16 to advance.

On their part, Argentina had to overcome a stubborn Australian side to advance, with Messi scoring in that clash.

While the Europeans will be battling Morocco in the next round, the South Americans face a tricky tie in the shape of the Netherlands as they eye a spot in the semis.

However, for the dream Messi-Ronaldo match to happen, both La Albiceleste and the Selecao would need to qualify for the final first.

If Argentina advances to the semis, they are scheduled to play the winner between Croatia and Brazil.

Portugal meanwhile, will come up against the winner between England and France should they see off the North Africans.

Alvarez apologises for Messi outburst

Sports Brief earlier reported on Mexican boxer, Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez offering an apology to Messi, following his outburst on social media.

Alvarez had threatening words for the Argentine genius, after a video showed the star 'stepping' on a Mexican team jersey and seemingly pushing it aside with his foot.

Numerous fans and players sprang to Messi's defence, including his fellow countrymen Andres Guadrado, Sergio Aguero and Cesc Fabregas.

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Fred Kennedy
Editor - Europe Team
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