Can Messi or Ronaldo Win A World Cup Trophy Before Retirement?

Messi and Ronaldo have been at the top of the pile for many years, winning trophies, awards, and many accolades over the years. There is no denying that they are the two best players for the past few decades. They’ve been at the deciding points of so many free betting picks because any team they play for automatically becomes the favorites.

However, one of the most elusive parts of their career is on the international stage. They’ve struggled to produce the same success for their respective clubs for their nations. It wasn’t until 2016 before Ronaldo got his first international trophy, while Messi got his first senior international trophy in 2021.  

Both players reportedly agreed that they would trade in a few individual awards just to lift the World Cup trophies for their beloved country. As much as we would love to watch both of them go at it for many more years, we can see them slowing down and the curtain on their illustrious career drawing close. Would either of them be able to deliver this most sort after trophy before retirement?

We can only project by looking at both players and their national teams. Fortunately, both Portugal and Argentina have made it to the World Cup, and we would love to see how far they go. 

Ronaldo’s Portugal

After Portugal defeated North Macedonia in an exciting 2-0 matchup, they sealed their spot in the FIFA World Cup 2022. As a result, Ronaldo has one more shot at winning a World Cup trophy. Portugal hasn’t been impressive in the World Cup since they got to the Semi-Finals in 2006 and finished 4th.

Portugal has never won the World Cup. Therefore, it would be a crowning moment if Cristiano Ronaldo could deliver for his country. However, it seems impossible since they’ve continued to struggle when it comes to the tournament. Since Ronaldo became Captain of the squad, they’ve not gone past the round of 16.

However, Portugal currently boasts of one of the best teams globally with players like Bernando Silva, Joao Cancelo, Bruno Fernandes, Joao Felix, etc. So, you can expect to see a stronger Portuguese side than in previous years. Although they struggled in the Euros and World Cup Qualifiers, they seem like a well-oiled team, following their display against North Macedonia.  

Messi’s Argentina

Argentina is a two-time World Cup winner. The country has a strong pedigree when it comes to this championship. We’ve seen them show strong display and cruise through so many games. However, since the time of Messi, it has been challenging. We’ve seen them fall into situations and unlucky moments.

In 2014, the whole world thought it was Messi’s turn to lift the trophy after he did all he could to take his country to the final. After many misses from the Argentinian side, the team fell to a late goal from Mario Gotze in extra time. Undoubtedly, it was one of the most heartbreaking defeats of the decade. 

At that moment, the World Cup trophy felt so close for Messi yet so far. All through those times, it has been unlucky for Messi. However, Messi still has one more chance to win the World Cup. The team has an excellent opportunity to go far with Lautaro Martinez, Angel Di Maria, and Paulo Dybala. 

Who Has the Better Chance?

Both players currently have strong teams heading to the 2022 FIFA World Cup tournament. However, tactics and team play will determine who has the better chance. The respective coaches will play significant roles as they have to pick players that would work well with both players. In addition, Argentina are current COPA America champions, giving them a considerable edge above Portugal.

FIFA World Cup Hopes

Undoubtedly, we cannot predict how the World Cup tournament will go. However, if there is any collective dream of all soccer fans worldwide, it is to see both players go head-to-head in the FIFA World Cup, especially in the final. If we can see them face-off in the final, it doesn’t matter who comes out on top; it would be the most fantastic showdown in the history of the sport!