Former Manchester United defender, Patrice Evra, has made an exciting prediction that could thrill football fans around the world. Evra believes the next FIFA World Cup final will be an epic showdown between two football legends—Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal and Lionel Messi of Argentina.
This means the grand finale of football’s biggest tournament could see Argentina facing Portugal, with Messi and Ronaldo going head-to-head on the world stage once again.
Although both players are now in the later stages of their careers, their influence on football remains huge. Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo continue to be respected as two of the greatest players ever to play the game.
Messi currently plays for Inter Miami in the Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States, while Ronaldo plays for Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League.
Messi’s recent achievement includes leading Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup held in Qatar, a career highlight that cemented his legacy.
Ronaldo, on the other hand, is still chasing a first World Cup final appearance with Portugal, having come close in past tournaments but never making it to the final match.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is expected to be the last World Cup for both players. At 38 years old, Ronaldo is determined to add one more chapter to his illustrious career. Messi, who will be 39, is also expected to give his best effort in what many fans hope will be his final World Cup appearance.
Evra told Stake.com that a World Cup final featuring these two football giants would be a historic event and the perfect way to close their World Cup careers.
“That would be like the last Marvel movie. Everyone would stop to watch,” Evra said.
“Of course! Two legends, one last dance, everyone would watch.”
Both Ronaldo and Messi have defined football for more than a decade. Their rivalry has produced countless memorable moments and records, making them household names worldwide.
Their clash in a World Cup final would not only be a sporting spectacle but a historic event for millions of fans who have followed their careers since the early 2000s.
In addition, a final between Argentina and Portugal would showcase two of football’s proudest nations and bring together fans from different parts of the world in a shared passion for the sport.
Lionel Messi, born in Rosario, Argentina, has won multiple Ballon d’Or awards and has broken numerous records in European football, especially during his time at Barcelona.
Cristiano Ronaldo, from Madeira, Portugal, has also won several Ballon d’Or titles and excelled at clubs like Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus before moving to his current club.
Both players have also been crucial leaders for their national teams in many tournaments, inspiring their countries with their performances.
While the prediction excites many, there are challenges ahead. Both players will need to maintain fitness and form to compete at the highest level in the 2026 World Cup.
The tournament will also feature young and talented players from around the world eager to make their mark.
But if Messi and Ronaldo do reach the final, it will be a powerful reminder of their lasting impact on football and their determination to compete at the highest stage until the end.
The idea of a Ronaldo vs Messi World Cup final has sparked excitement among football fans on social media platforms and sports forums.
Many see it as the perfect farewell to two of football’s greatest icons, while others hope it will inspire the next generation of players to reach similar heights.
Football analyst Chidi Okeke said, “This would be one of the greatest sporting events ever. It’s rare to have two players of such quality and longevity compete in the same final. Fans would be glued to their screens.”
Both players will soon return to their clubs to prepare for the upcoming seasons and the qualification matches for the World Cup.
Ronaldo will aim to continue his scoring form at Al Nassr, while Messi will look to build on his success at Inter Miami.
