Cristiano Ronaldo Joins Exclusive Club with Sixth FIFA World Cup Appearance

Cristiano Ronaldo has made history by becoming the second player to participate in six FIFA World Cups, following Lionel Messi. This milestone was achieved during the match against DR Congo, where Ronaldo leads the Portuguese team. Despite his impressive career, the FIFA World Cup title remains elusive for him. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi, who has also played in every World Cup since 2006, captained Argentina to victory in 2022. As Ronaldo aims to end his title drought, the excitement builds for the upcoming tournament.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 17, 2026, 22:03 IST

Ronaldo's Historic Milestone

Cristiano Ronaldo has made history by becoming the second player ever to participate in six FIFA World Cups, following in the footsteps of Lionel Messi. This remarkable achievement was confirmed when he was included in the starting lineup against DR Congo, leading the Portuguese team in this prestigious tournament. Ronaldo's journey in the FIFA World Cup began in 2006, and he has been a consistent presence in every subsequent event. Despite his numerous accolades, the coveted FIFA World Cup title has eluded him, as Portugal has never reached the final. In the previous tournament in 2022, Ronaldo's team was eliminated in the quarter-finals, leaving him emotional and uncertain about his future in the sport. Nevertheless, he has committed to representing Portugal once again in the 2026 World Cup, determined to finally secure a title.

Messi's Unique Achievement

Lionel Messi holds the distinction of being the first footballer to achieve this milestone, having participated in every World Cup since 2006. He led Argentina to victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and should he guide his team to another win, he would become the first captain to do so. Additionally, Mexico's Guillermo Ochoa has also played in three World Cups, although he has not been part of the starting XI in all of them.

Portugal vs DR Congo Playing XIs

DR CONGO Starting XI (5-3-2): Lionel Mpasi (GK); Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Steve Kapuadi, Axel Tuanzebe (C), Chancel Mbemba, Arthur Masuaku; Ngalayel Mukau, Samuel Moutoussamy, Edo Kayembe; Cedric Bakambu, Yoane Wissa.Substitutes: Timothy Fayulu, Matthieu Epolo, Dylan Batubinsika, Joris Kayembe, Gedeon Kalulu, Nathanael Mbuku, Theo Bongonda, Noah Sadiki, Aaron Tshibola, Charles Pickel, Brian Cipenga, Gael Kakuta, Meschack Elia, Fiston Mayele, Simon Banza.

PORTUGAL Starting XI (4-2-3-1): Diogo Costa (GK); Tomas Araujo, Renato Veiga, Joao Cancelo, Nuno Mendes; Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Joao Neves, Vitinha; Cristiano Ronaldo (C), Pedro Neto.Substitutes: Jose Sa, Rui Silva, Nelson Semedo, Ruben Dias, Diogo Dalot, Goncalo Inacio, Samu Costa, Matheus Nunes, Ruben Neves, Goncalo Ramos, Joao Felix, Francisco Trincao, Rafael Leao, Goncalo Guedes, Francisco Conceicao.